Step 3: Reacting to
the expressive content (I think....”)
What is the
purpose or meaning of the artwork? Using
the clues from steps 1 & 2, try to decide if the artist was creating a mood,
an idea, or abstract quality. Although
the expression of the artwork may seem to fit into more than one of these categories,
concentrate on the one which seems most appropriate. Explain your choice and back up your thoughts
with facts from the painting.
1. MOOD
What
feeling does the artwork evoke within you?
peace fun
sadness excitement
joy warmth happiness
coldness
anger fear madness
hate
hope loneliness love
adventure
2. IDEA
What
is the artist telling you about? Is
this artist telling you a story?
war old age youth
beauty
power honor glory
adoration
respect reverence spirit
winning
a
personal experience
a
particular place
future
events
enjoyment
of work
3. ABSTRACT QUALITY
Does the prime concern of this artist seem to be with lines,
shapes, colors and texture in developing a design or a composition?
interest
in lines
simplicity
of design
complexity
of design
interest
in shapes
interest
in colors
Consider the formal elements of the work, and how it relates to content
Ask yourself how the elements are organized -i.e. the relationship of light
& dark, how line is employed (Is there chiaroscuro? Is line dominant or
fragmented, does it rely on linear perspective? etc, etc)
What is the predominant color scheme? (i.e. does it use complimentary colors,
analogous colours?)
Is there visual rhythm? If so, how is it achieved?
How is the composition balanced? Is it Symmetrical or Asymmetrical? Is this
important?
Does scale effect your perception? If so, why?
How does the choice of medium effect the work? Is it integral to your interaction
with the work?
What do you think the artist is trying to say about the subject?
What feelings does it arouse? - Do specific elements effect these feelings?