Journal

Every now and then, when I create something - be it a painting, a drawing, a story, an article, or a design - I sit back and nod my head in admiration. "Such genius!" I say, pleased.

This lasts a minute or two, until I find myself no longer sure. I proceed to hold on tight to my creation, not wanting anyone to see, subconsciously knowing that their opinion may shatter my confidence and the clarity of my greatness. They couldn't possibly understand why this is so good! Especially if they tell me it's garbage! Alas, my fear reveals the truth. Though hard to face, the truth is what could take my creation and turn it into something great. The Noble Critique shines the light and the truth is revealed.

The Light

The Noble Critique - thoughtful and honest feedback delivered with grace - sees what I could not. Learning is a constant process and accelerated learning comes when the Noble Critique is allowed to poke in its head. Seeing and hearing the thoughts of others can bring your work to a higher level faster than anything else. As you allow yourself to listen and to engage the thoughts of another, you open yourself to your greatest potential.

Trust a Must

Creative work by nature is meant to push boundaries. Letting in the the Noble Critique isn't about listening to everybody. Great work is often disliked by many. But without any thoughtful feedback, self idolization can stunt growth. Good work misses the opportunity to become better. Most of us, however, find it convenient to shy away from any feedback at all, as our creative confidence is easily fragmented. Our fear seals an open mind. Trust must first exist to open the passage of communication. The Nobel Critique is selective, and chooses those whose opinion is valued most. It finds trusted advisors whose experience offers value to a project and whose knowledge is respected. The Noble Critique must reside on mutual trust.

More Specifically

When someone says, "I just don't like it," you are left with nothing but a yucky feeling inside. An effective critique must come with reasons and suggestions. The Noble Critique is specific: "The color here isn't working because it is in competition with the central focus of the image. The type choice is not effective because its personality feels disconnected from the context." Specificity allows for clarity. The Noble Critique doesn't make decisions for you, but it clearly guides offering specific suggestions and actionable steps that might be taken to make a creative piece better. It offers possibilities, not judgements.

A Kind Blow

Anytime you put your work out there it can be frightening. Especially when it's fed to the wolves of Art or Design and is ripped into shreds. Often, this approach can do more harm than good. The creative spirit can be fragile. The Noble Critique is honest, but kind. True, it must point out the flaws to push a piece further. The creative spirit must toughen up a little if improvement is sought. But never does this require harshness or rejection. The Noble Critique commends the positive and gracefully points out the negative, opening doors to learning and growth.

Another Level

Great creative work is born from the Noble Critique. Rooted in trust, honesty, and kindness it offers an opportunity. For without a keen outside eye and an honest evaluation important adjustments and slight variations are missed. Without trust in the wisdom of another's point of view, self-idolization limits creativity. Without kindness, doors of communication are unnecessarily closed. Without specificity, spirits can be dampened and steps are not taken. A good piece misses the change of being great. Great artists know they always needs a little help from the Noble Critique. Though its sting may hurt for a moment, its benefits will take you and your work to new heights and new possibilities.