Thoughts about critics...

Earlier today I was posting on another art site, and they were discussing how to deal with criticism of our art.

I remember being accepted into a fine arts juried show with my hand painted rocks about 10 years ago. The majority of the art was painted on canvas and I overheard several of the canvas artists saying my rocks should not be allowed in the show, that it would be better suited for a "craft" show. It really hurt my feelings, but I didn't show it, and I held my head high. The funny thing was, I had done a lot of canvas art earlier in my career, but I didn't say anything. I was confident in my work, and the show promoters wanted me there. It was one of my most successful showings of my art, and I did many more after that no matter if I got snubbed by my fellow artists in the same shows.

I always compliment other artists in what they do, because I know what a tough business it is to be in, let alone all the hours we spend perfecting our craft for the public to see.  Let's face it, we all might not like what other artists do, but do you have to say it loud enough for another artist to hear it? It's just a shame that some artists can't be supportive of other artists in what they do.