Which step of critiquing art involves both artistic merit and personal opinion?

The step of critiquing art that involves both artistic merit and personal opinion is the evaluation phase. During this stage, the critic assesses the work's technical execution, composition, and thematic depth, while also reflecting on their own emotional and intellectual responses to the piece. This dual focus allows for a comprehensive understanding of the artwork, blending objective analysis with subjective interpretation. Ultimately, this synthesis enriches the critique by acknowledging both the creator's intent and the viewer's experience.