Utilizing critical race theory (Delgado & Stefancic, 2012), this exploratory study examined the lived experiences of 19 Black art students as they navigated critique spaces at institutions of art and design. Critique (or "crit") is the primary evaluative tool used in art schools with the purpose of providing constructive, generative feedback to students (Costantino, 2015). Findings from this thematic analysis revealed how the subjective nature of critique often allowed for racially biased responses by faculty and peers. Participants noted four prevalent interactions during critique: Cultural incompetence, silence, superficial praise, and a focus on form. Interviewees also described the psychological impact of critique and the coping skills they employed. This study offers implications for administrators, faculty, and staff as they address institutional inequities in assessment practices at colleges of art and design and within other performance-based majors and institutions.