Describe what is shown in the work. Be sure to include particularly important information about the work, such as the title, the artist who created it, the style/period in which it was created, and the materials that were used. Tell exactly what you see, with as much detail as possible. Consider the subject of the work – what is being shown? Be objective and focus on the work; this is NOT the time to judge or the place to add personal opinions. And remember: you have seen the work, but your reader might not have seen it, so strive to create a sense of a visual image through the descriptive words that are used. You should have four works one for each of the above categories.
Subject analysis requires the viewer to explain what is being depicted in the work – again, with as much detail as possible. The majority of artwork prior to the twentieth century is representational, meaning it depicts objects from the world around us. As visual art becomes increasingly abstract, describing the subject matter might be more challenging. And in nonobjective/nonrepresentational works, there is really no subject to be described (although some tend to insist that “something” must be depicted). Since a description of the subject matter explains “what” is being shown, an analysis should explore the “how” and “why”.
The content analysis takes one beneath the surface of what is presented in the work and involves interpretation of what is being represented and why. Art is a vehicle of communication, so it is important to consider what the artist might be trying to say through the work.
The contextual analysis takes one beyond the work and requires outside research. It is helpful to know something about the particular period and style of the work and events that influenced the artist and how these are reflected in the work. It is also important to consider the artist’s intention and motives, although it may be difficult to find an artist’s personal statement regarding this.
Evaluation is the last step. What do you think about this piece of work? Does the work have artistic merit and value? Is it important? Is it successful? Here, you might express your opinion, but you need to be sure to support it by relying on what you have offered in the previous three sections. And remember – just because you do not value a work of art or do not see its importance does not mean that it does not have value. And just saying that you “likcixe” it or do not like it is not enough!
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