Western art term paper 5 pages

This is a looking assignment; I am interested in your opinion, only! You do not need to do any outside research. Please do not use the internet as a source; if you feel compelled to look at sources other than your textbook and the lectures, make sure that you cite them in your footnotes and bibliography.

Make sure that your paper has a thesis statement that articulates what your main point/argument will be.

Take a good long look at both pieces; take lots of notes. In comparing the objects, there are many factors to consider (cultural context, stylistic differences, etc.).

The first question to ask yourself is: What effect is the artist trying to achieve through his or her use of formal elements?

To answer this question, consider such issues as:

Composition (design): the place and arrangement of forms on the surface of the canvas. How does the artist direct the viewer’s eyes? Note the use of negative space, if any.

Spatial illusionism (three dimensionality): forms in space

Modeling: Are the forms rendered as 3-D objects in space? Are they flat? What is the effect?

Line: Are there implied lines? How does line relate to composition and color?

Light: How is light used to create effects in the viewer’s eye? What are the contrasts between light and dark?

Color: How does color relate to line, composition, etc?

Application of pigment: can you see the brushwork? What is the effect of the technique used?

Materials: would the effect be different if different materials were used?

Point of view: Is the work of art meant to be seen from one point of view or multiple views? Usually paintings have one point of view; sculpture may have more than one.

Rhythm: Is there rhythm in the composition? How is it achieved? If there is no rhythm, why is that? What is the effect?

Texture: What is the actual surface of the work of art like? What is the implied surface of the object(s) presented?

Scale: How does the size of the work of art relate to the viewer? To the space around it? Is it overwhelming? Underwhelming?

Economy vs. complexity: How does the artist communicate meaning? By using a large number of elements (complexity) or a minimal number of elements (economy)?

Title: Does the title help you interpret what you see? If it does not, please don’t write about it in your paper.

Remember to give your paper a title that sums up what you are doing (avoid titles such as “A Comparison Between A and B,” etc.)

Writing the paper: Be selective and focused in what you write. You cannot possibly discuss every aspect of the art works. Make sure you have a title for your paper (not just the title of the work of art but something that sums up your ideas). Your paper should have a thesis statement. Your discussion of form will be the evidence you use to support your thesis statement. If you need help with writing a thesis statement, please consult: