I'm sorry but I must address the issue of "the critique" yet again...
I keep being perplexed at how constructive criticism is seen as a negative by a vast number of artists. I realize we are all following our own creative instincts and not everyone viewing our work will understand our intensions. I know some of you would never offer any personal analysis of another's creation. Friendly words of encouragement are the only ones you'll utter. That's perfectly fine. We all love those friendly words, don't we?
Some of us however also embrace the critique. At Rhode Island School of Design we were taught to critique. It was how we conversed about art. We were told of it's importance. Developing a good critical eye, to be able to analyze a painting by it's strong points and it's weaker points was the first step in being able to "fix it". Our education was based around this. It was essential to develop this aspect of yourself in order to be able to separate yourself from their own art to analyze it critically. Without that component, an artist fell short of possible continual growth. Simply being pleased with yourself for creating something was a recipe for stagnating.
Most of you know where you fall with regards to the critique. From past posts, the results are pretty black and white on the subject. My intensions are not to rehash that argument.
The internet is far reaching. So be mindful as to where you stand on the critique scale. If you are opposed to hearing another's view on your work, don't ask for it. Pretending to want a critique, even when you're actually pointing out the weaknesses yourself shouldn't get you all up in arms to have another artist agree with you! Sending out the inquiry of wanting your opinion or please let me know what you think, when in actuality all that is desired is affirmation that the piece is perfect as it is! Come on folks, are we so insecure with our own work that even when we are doubting our results, we crumble when someone agrees and offers a simple solution???
The bottom line is, if you don't want an honest critique, don't ask. If what you really want is sugar-coating, ask for it! (or go buy a jelly donut...)
Critiques are merely someone else's opinion. They can be taken to heart or ignored. The level of achievement of the person critiquing should be taken into consideration. Is this person qualified? Someone who doesn't paint will often think a very amateur piece is great because they couldn't do it themselves. Someone whose level is far above your own probably knows what they're talking about. I call that a mentor, which I see as a great gift.
So if you're the artist who only desires the sugar-coating, that's fine. Just don't waste people's time by asking the masses for an honest opinion.