I don't dislike art quilts, but I've seen lots of them that seem to be just an excuse for poor workmanship. I realize art quilts are judged as a separate category (often based on technique, computer assisted, painted, etc), but maybe some should be in art shows, not quilt shows.
Many quilters try new techniques and hone their skills over the years which puts us all on a level playing field. Meaning that if I want to excell at a technique such as applique, I need to work at it, take classes, etc.
But I'm not an artist. So transferring a photo to fabric and painting it is not something I'll ever be able to do.
Sorry, gotta get off this soapbox!