What is a primary goal of art criticism?

A primary goal of art criticism is to find meaning in a work of art. This involves examining various aspects of the artwork, such as its subject matter, themes, context, and the emotions it evokes in viewers. Understanding meaning goes beyond surface-level observations; it delves into the intentions of the artist and the cultural or historical significance of the piece.

While critiquing an artist's technique and analyzing color usage can be important aspects of art criticism, they serve as tools to facilitate a deeper understanding of the artwork's meaning rather than being the main goal themselves. Replicating the artwork does not pertain to criticism, as it focuses more on the creation of art than on evaluating or interpreting it. Thus, finding meaning encompasses the overall purpose of art criticism by fostering a richer dialogue about the work and its impact.