Critique Book

Let’s Talk about Critique
Reimagining Art and Design Education
Elissa Armstrong and Mariah Doren

Let’s Talk about Critique examines how critique in art education has evolved, how it falls short, and what else it could be. Elissa Armstrong and Mariah Doren contextualize current practices by discussing the history of critique, the field of education, and the characteristics of today’s students. Then they offer suggestions for ways to have more open, inclusive, and dynamic classroom conversations about art and design. The core of the book consists of critique format descriptions, written by experienced educators, that provide a wide variety of thoughtful approaches that can be readily adapted and used.

Elissa Armstrong is an associate professor in the Department of Craft/Material Studies at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts. Mariah Doren is the director of academic programs at Rhode Island School of Design, Continuing Education.