244 The End of Art School Critiques - Amir Zaki

What’s My Thesis?

The End of Art School Critiques with Amir Zaki | Episode 244

In this episode, photographer Amir Zaki joins Javier Proenza to explore the dramatic shift in art school critiques and how they've evolved from rigorous technical assessments to something much more complex and subjective. As an artist who’s experienced both sides of the critique system, Amir offers a unique perspective on how the traditional model of evaluating art is becoming increasingly obsolete in today’s art world.

Art school critiques, once focused primarily on technical mastery and formal analysis, have undergone a transformation. As art practices have evolved, so too has the way we discuss and assess artwork. For Amir Zaki, the end of traditional critiques signals a larger cultural shift in how we approach creative work. In this conversation, Amir reflects on how critiques today are no longer just about technique—they now center on personal expression, conceptual depth, and the context in which the art is made.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The decline of traditional art school critiques: Why the emphasis on technical skill is giving way to more abstract discussions.
• The growing importance of personal narrative and cultural context in contemporary critiques.
• How the role of the art critic has evolved alongside these shifts.
• The impact of these changes on the education of emerging artists and what it means for the future of art schools.
• Amir Zaki’s own artistic journey and how he’s navigated the changing landscape of critiques throughout his career.

Links & Resources:

• Check out Amir Zaki’s photography and current projects: [Website or Instagram link]
• Explore Amir Zaki’s involvement in the Pacific Standard Time group show at the Culver Arts Center.
• Support the podcast! Subscribe, leave a review, and get early access to episodes via Patreon.