Self-critique checklist for painters.
- Is my idea of the painting clear? If not, where did I miss the mark? How can it be reinforced?
- Does anything need work? Often the painting has its own direction and should go that way. Listen to it.
- Is there a general sense of Harmony? Does the technique (i.e. brush handling) or colour work together and look to be of the “same world”. Does it all look like the same painter painted it or is there inconsistency in style or approach?
- What finishing touches could I add to give the painting more zing?
- Is there a convincing sense of depth? Are there any tangents that bother me or flatten the painting out?
- Does the initial abstract value pattern still read clearly?
- Is there enough detail? And then of course, is there too much detail?
- Does the painting convey the “mood” of the day? If not - How can I resolve this in the next painting?
- Is it really me? My reflection? My interpretation? My style?
- As successful as the painting is, how could the next one be better?
If you can’t find an answer, ask a better question!
Hint: It’s best to answer these questions in the presence of a beer, which tends to take the sting out of the answers.
Keep swingin’ that brush!
Your friend in art,
Doug.