An
art critic is a person who specializes in evaluating
art. Their written critiques, or reviews, are published in newspapers, magazines, books and on web sites.
Art collectors and patrons often utilize the advice of art critics as a way to enhance their appreciation of the art they are viewing.
Typically the art critic views art at
exhibitions,
galleries,
museums or
artists'
studios.
Professional art critics are expected to have a keen eye for art and a thorough knowledge of
art history. Knowledge, however, provides no guarantee that a critic will know if a
work of art, an exhibition, or an artist will stand out in history as "great".
The opinions of art critics has the potential to stir debate on art related topics. Due to this the viewpoints of art critics writing for art publications and newspapers adds to public discourse concerning art and culture. Today art critics, such as
Jerry Saltz, use
art blogs and other online platforms in order to connect with a wider audience and expand debate about
art.
Many now famous and celebrated artists were not recognized by the art critics of their time, often because their art was in a style not yet understood or favored. Conversely, some critics, have become particularly important helping to explain and promote new
art movements —
Roger Fry with the
Post-Impressionist movement,
Lawrence Alloway with
Pop Art as examples.
Some famous art critics
Gallery
See also
