Interpreting the Work

1. Sharing Reactions

In the critique process, participants must share their first reactions. At this point, however, the discussion should not include any judgments.

Participants in a critique are going to share their perceptions of style and cultural references in the piece being viewed.

2. Sharing Perspectives and Meaning

Participants will continue by sharing any personal perspectives or meaning that they find in the piece.

Take a look at the image below.

Everyone will interpret a piece in their own way, so this step is really about how specific viewers perceive and interpret a piece.

EXAMPLE

Someone may view the image above and say, "I like the use of pattern and texture in this piece. There is a good sense of movement and direction as well. This feels similar to aboriginal art. To me, it implies springtime and the constant change of seasons."

Oftentimes, a facilitator will pose questions to the group, making sure that everyone has a chance to respond and give their own opinion about a piece and how it speaks to them.