i love critique. i feel it helps me grow as an artist. i am in an art group and often ask for their critique.
my DH is also an artist and many times i have dragged him into my studio for his opinion.
when you work outside of the box most of the time it helps to be surrounded by other artists that can look at your work objectively.
my family did encourage me to sell my work and it was the best thing that ever happened.
i love what i do for a living and it pays the bills and puts money in the bank for savings.
what more could i ask for.