Inside the Critique Circle at Vibe Studio JXN

The Ensemble Guild is an arts organization designed to bring Mississippi's creative professionals together to collaborate, share resources, and grow their careers. We believe professional growth happens best when artists directly shape their own experiences based on their unique skills and personal creative goals.

Recently, Guild members and local creators gathered at Vibe Studio Jackson—a creative space founded by Guild Member Alexis Noble—for our latest Critique Circle.

We understand that giving and receiving feedback on work-in-progress can often feel intimidating or unhelpful without the right structure. To make sure every artist felt supported, Saint Allen Austin facilitated Liz Lerman’s Critical Response Process.

This four-step method focuses on active listening, deep engagement, and artist-led inquiry. Instead of jumping straight to unsolicited opinions, the process gives the creator full control over what kind of feedback they receive and when.

By combining a welcoming space like Vibe Studio with a clear method for dialogue, participants were able to test out new concepts, share unfinished projects, and gain clear, actionable insights to take back to their studios.

As one participating artist shared after the session:

"This was one of the most positive and helpful critiques I've been to." -Justin Ransburg

Building a sustainable creative practice requires both community and continuous reflection.

The Critique Circle is just one of the ways the Ensemble Guild creates space for artists to sharpen their voice alongside peers who are equally invested in their growth.