Actually, that isn't exactly true to reality. I like criticism...
When I ask for it. When I do ask for it, I will listen to every word of it and appreciate every bit of advice given to me.
So... I'm talking about UNSOLICITED criticism only.
If I don't ask for it... I don't want to hear it. I don't want to hear how this or that figure is out of proportion. I don't want to hear how the lighting on this or that piece is off. I don't want to hear that this character I drew looks too feminine, or this chick I drew is wearing the wrong kind of armor (or has the wrong skin color, or needs longer legs, etc. etc).
The reason I don't want to hear it is not because I'm too sensitive or too arrogant or too stubborn (though some might believe that... and it's their right). It's not because I only post art so that scores of people can butter up my ego. And it sure as hell not because I think I'm this great amazing modern master of art who doesn't need anyone's advice and does not need to improve.
There are three main reasons why I don't like criticism. The first is a simple one: I don't want people telling me what I already know. If I'm not sure about something, I ask. But overall, I know what my strength are, and I also know my weaknesses. And I hardly need dozens of people telling me one of the figures on my latest painting is somewhat out of proportion, because after decades of doing art, I can damn well see that myself.
Say you've taken a math test at school and gotten a C. You KNOW you have a C. You know exactly WHY you got a C. How can it possibly help you when everyone in school makes a point to come up to you and say, "hey, you got a C, gotta work on that math there, girl"? Answer is, it doesn't. If you're serious about your math (art), you'll suck it up and work harder on your next test (piece). And if you aren't, then any critique you receive becomes pointless. The best criticism I receive is actually when I see how well a piece is selling - some might think this is a rather cold approach to what's supposed to be a passion, but since I've chosen to make my living from art I have no choice but to embrace the fact that business is an inseparable part of it.
The second reason I don't care for criticism is, I don't ever rework my pieces. Ever. Once it's finished, it's finished, the good, the bad and the ugly alike. So telling me how I can "improve it" is pretty futile. I'm not looking to improve it.
Ever.And finally, I believe most unsolicited critique comes from a negative place and carries negative energy that I just don't want to deal with. Most of it is someone actually complaining about an artist's personal style or subject(s) of choice based on what the critic believes good art is. And most times it's the critic channeling their own insecurities, or making themselves feel better by telling others they ain't "all that". And it's crap, no offense to anyone. Because "good art" is very subjective. I hate abstract art with a passion, but I don't feel it's my place to go to an abstract artist's gallery and tell him his work is way out there and he should try some portraits instead.
I recently stumbled upon a very cool artist's gallery. It's what inspired me to write this, actually. The gallery contained semi-realistic, imaginative, professional-looking traditional work. I found it wonderful, and wanted to leave a comment telling the artist that. And as I did, my eyes chanced upon this comment (I'm paraphrasing, because I don't want you guys to Google it and go on comment rampage):
"As beautiful as your work is, it looks like it was created digitally because it has this smooth, perfect look. I wanted to tell you how important it is to use different poses and angles, as well as some full body imagery. You're great with faces and such, but... When I look at your gallery, I feel something is missing."Now, HOW is any of that comment helpful? What's more, WHAT can possibly compel someone to say something like this to a complete stranger? No, it isn't rude, not really. And yes, it's constructive, if you really think about it. But the bottom line is, this person is basically telling this wonderful artist three things: a) they don't like digital art and art that looks too "smooth", b) portraits are not really their thing, and c) the artist's style is not something they're into.
So we're talking about one person's opinion. And it is completely USELESS. This artist works in a certain style, loves what she does, and is obviously successful with it. I don't know how she saw this comment (she never responded, good on her), but here's how
I see it: it's nothing but a neat little pile of sugar-coated turds. And I doubt anyone needs sugar-coated turds in their life if they can help it.
I stick religiously to the "if you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all" rule, both in art and in life. Maybe there's something wrong with me, but I can tell you in all honesty I've never felt the need to give anyone unsolicited criticism in my entire life.
"Those who can, do. Those who can't, criticize". I don't remember who said this, but he/she obviously had the right idea.
Thanks for listening, chiiiiildren!
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FEATURES OF THE MOMENT:
Traditional:
Digital:
Photography:
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Clubs:
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New calendars & books 
All the writing had sat in my draw for well over two decades before I finally decided to make a book out of it. Poetry is no longer a real tangible part of my life, more like a subject of nostalgia, but making this book was fun, and it means a lot to finally be able to share it with the world. 
Sentimental
Tired
Daily Needs
you all! 
