Yes, I had considered that might be one of the reasons. Speaking for myself only, I'd rather be ripped to shreds than patted on the back -- assuming the ripping comes with advice for addressing the problem areas. I readily admit to being a rank beginner, and I've learned in the past year that when my ego bristles, I'm usually getting ready to learn something. :D

Minh

Have you read in the Posting Guidelines and Proper Conduct? The subject of not getting much feedback is briefly addressed in there. http://forum.portraitartist.com/show...&threadid=1723

Actually, if you haven't read this whole section, it's a good idea to familiarize youself with what is there.

Linda, I got a little carried away and posted some thoughts in the Cafe section regarding the path of this thread. I hope you get a chance to read it! Rock on, just practice, practice, practice! http://forum.portraitartist.com/show...&threadid=2112

Critiques
 

I agree that getting a harsh critique is better than no critique. However, the critique should be informative and helpful. Simply telling someone to go back to the basics without explaining what could be improved in their piece isn't all that helpful and can leave one a little discouraged. That is all I was saying but I guess it didn't come out that way.