Art Critic

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 such 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.

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. Some of today's art critics 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.