Critical Conversations: Giving good feedback: Is being nice being kind?
A thought-provoking session about the importance of honest, constructive feedback in artistic development – and why it matters for a strong and thriving arts sector.
When you’ve spent too long looking at your own work, it can be difficult to see it with fresh eyes. Thoughtful feedback can help identify what isn’t working, strengthen what is, and open up new directions for the work.
But giving and receiving meaningful critical feedback isn’t always easy. This can be particularly challenging in a small, close-knit arts sector like the NT. Sometimes being nice can feel kinder than saying what we really think, but avoiding difficult conversations doesn’t necessarily serve the artist, the work or the sector as a whole.
So how can we challenge one another’s work while maintaining trust and strong working relationships? And what does a healthy culture of feedback contribute to the wider arts ecology?
This session explores different approaches to giving and receiving feedback, with lessons from times it has gone wrong.
Back again for 2026, at a time when the world seems to be all about absolutes and division, some of Darwin’s leading arts organisations have come together to create CRITICAL CONVERSATIONS.
PRODUCTION NOTES
Duration: 1 hour
Recommended for ages: 16+
Content warnings: Course language may be used and adult themes may be discussed
Access:
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Accessible by public transport
- Various forms of contact accepted (written, verbal etc) for complaints and bookings.
- A quiet space is available
- Assistance dogs welcome
- Seating options are available
- Car park suitable for wheelchair transportation available within 2 minutes of the venue entrance.
