Instruction
Critique Part I: Formal Analysis
Write an analysis on the attached work of art using the Formal mode of art criticism (Visual Elements and Principles of Design) to be submitted as a scholarly critique of 1-2 pages in length (double-spaced).
The essay should utilize proper terminology. Please include proper essay headings, and the title and artist of the artwork provided at the beginning of your paper.
This assignment is worth a total of 50 points.
Formal Analysis Requirements--IMPORTANT!
The goal of a formal analysis is to explain how the formal elements of a work of art affect the representation of the subject matter and expressive content.
Focus on describing what it looks like visually, using the elements and principles and a lot of descriptive language.
Do not talk about what you like or dislike, no need to tell us why it is your favorite.
Do not interpret the artwork's subject and content, focus on form.
At the very end, you may provide a meaning of the work based on the formal qualities.
A Successful Critique will:
Have proper essay headings.
Include the title and artist's name.
Focus on form, not subject and content
Use appropriate art terminology (the elements and principles, used correctly)
Make specific comments about parts of the work being referred to.
Describe in detail specific aspects of the work when referencing the work.
State facts: defend your opinion using evidence from the work (what it looks like, how the elements and principles are working)
Use accurate writing mechanics.
Use proper citation if you reference external sources. This essay does not require you to do external research. You will be responding to what you see and identify.
Required terminology: Visual Elements and Principles of Design
You may use any/all of the Elements and Principles, but in this essay you must explain how the following terms are working in the artwork.
Depth
Value
Space
Color
Motion
Unity
Variety
Balance