The most important attribute an artist must attain to be successful is humility.
How to accept criticism with grace. Criticism is important, stressful, beneficial, and infuriating all at the same time. Having other people analyze your work helps you to learn from your mistakes, get new ideas, and perfect you unique style that makes your work yours.
But, sadly, artists are no more than normal people with an out of control hobby. Though we could claim to always have good taste or possess above average observation skills, the truth is we are just, well...average. We are not equipped with natural grace, humility, or temperance. In other words; just like taxi drivers, construction workers, or lawyers, we are not born with an incarnate ability to accept criticism. It is a learned skill that comes from practice and experience. Just like sketching, painting, or any other type of artistic discipline.
This is why you see the painter wincing while talking to onlookers at an art show. Or why some artists prefer to not be present while their work is displayed. Or the design student sweating over turning in an assignment. Criticism is never easy to swallow especially when you have invested your time and creativity into a project. Believe me, you will become attached to your piece. Whether you're a writer, photographer, illustrator, or sculpture, you are not impervious to attachment. At one time or another we all get defensive about our specific venue.
I wish I could tell you how to become a master at dealing with critics in five easy steps. Or recommend the newest "For Dummies..." book. But, unfortunately, there is no easy remedy or fast fix. But I can offer a few pointer on how to prevent you from yelling at a potential buyer, hiding your work from family, or decking an instructor in the face.
1. Do not subject a piece of artwork to criticism with five minutes of finishing it.
This is a bad idea. You have just become satisfied enough with the piece to declare it "finished" so you obviously like it. This is not the best time for you to hear what is wrong with it. My advice is give it a day, or at least a couple of hours.
2. Remember beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Remind yourself that all forms of art are subject to opinion and personal taste. It is impossible to please every palette.
3. Do not be afraid to discard advice.
Considering all suggestions is important; but not all suggestions are good ones. In the end, what a critique is saying may or may not be credible. Changing your methods to adapt to their advice may dampen your specific style or effect the appeal your work has on your target audience.
