Standard User

Okay, I totally have got this.

Step 1) if the artist has not stated that they want critique on their piece, ask first. Unwanted criticism isn't very cool, especially if someone is a hobbyist artist and is comfortable with where they are at!

Step 2) All of this: http://emptyeasel.com/2007/06/18/how-to-give-an-art-critique-constructive-criticism-for-artists/

Step 3) Profit!

Oh no, I don't mean just tearing into the art and/or the artist. I mean offering your honest opinion with a tip or two on how to make it even better. If the artist asks for a full-blown critique, THEN you take a hammer and chisel to it. And dynamite.

Some artists, like myself, actually don't want criticism. Call it a personal thing, but even if I think it's the most awesome picture ever, I can still see a million things wrong with it. If I posted "perfect" artwork every time, I'd never post anything. Artists are their own worst critics. It's different for everyone though. I never thought you'd do that, but I figured I'd give the information anyway, to keep everyone educated! Just in case.