If I like an image, and I wish to let the artist know this, I will not hesitate to leave a comment -- without feeling the necessity for writing a chapter or two on how the shadows don't look quite right.......

I enjoy many gallery images on an emotional plane. In such cases, I see no need for technical vivisection.

If, for example, I see a landscape that appeals to me -- I might comment by saying "excellent" or "beautiful", and no more. Someone else, on the other hand, might not agree with my assessment of the image. In that case, they are welcome to leave a lengthy critque, if they so desire.

Art, by its very nature, is subjective. You and I might look at the same image, and then our opinions will follow opposite paths.

Likewise, our gallery comments are subjective. I like what I like. And I will not stop telling the artist this. Saying "excellent" might seem shallow to some. But it's a small way of expressing appreciation to me: it's a way of saying "thank you" for sharing your art.

I'll usually leave the technical criticisim to others.

It's my choice.

Something To Do At 3:00AM