Critiquing Visual Stories

By now you know why peer review matters, and why it’s important to be a better critic and accept constructive criticism. But to learn is to do, so let’s test your improved critiquing skills before really putting them to use.

Answer the following questions for TWO visual stories that are of the same medium or message. Use the Curated Library or any online resource (even your favourite streaming service) to find the works you want to critique.

Describe

• What is your first thought when you see the work? Describe it.
• What materials have been used to produce it? What colours are used?
• What’s the genre (abstract, landscape, video, stop motion, photography, etc)?
• Explain the piece as you interpret it. What do you believe the message to be?

Analyze

• What elements and principles of design can you pick out? What image development strategies were used?
• Is there a title to the piece? If so, does it help you understand the message better?
• In your opinion, what element is the main focus?
• Do the supporting elements help add to the understanding of the visual story?
• Why do you think the colours have been chosen?

Interpret

• What is the purpose of the visual story? To bring awareness? To offer a solution? To invoke an emotional response like humour, reflection or inspiration?
• What message is the creator trying to get across?
• Is there enough detail in the work to create an effective, impactful visual story?
• Is there anything confusing that needs clarification? Is that a positive or a negative?

Evaluate

• Did you enjoy the piece?
• What did you like the most?
• Can you think of any improvements that would make this visual story more effective?
• Does the work strike the right tone?
• Is the message clear? Is that a good thing or not?
• Is the work free of cultural appropriation, as well as ethical and legal problems?
• Why do you think the creator was successful/unsuccessful in creating an impactful visual story?
• What might you have created if given a similar challenge or opportunity?

Now compare and contrast your reviews and determine which visual story is more successful, from your perspective. Point out what specific elements led you to this decision and remember to keep these ideas in mind as you work on your final project.

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