How to Analyze and Critique Artwork

It doesn't take a fancy art degree or a certain genetic makeup to appreciate, evaluate, and

discuss artwork. Whether you're enjoying Donatello's Bronze David during an art tour in

your home city or Botticelli's Birth of Venus during an art themed cruise, the steps of

analysis and critique remain the same. You simply assemble the facts about the work,

interpret it, and evaluate it. Here is your guide to analyzing and critiquing artwork like a

seasoned pro.

Gather the Facts about the Work

Who created the work, when, why, and how are all important facts in understanding a

work of art. For example, the purpose and goals behind Monet's Water Lilies is vastly

different than the Greek statue of The Discus Thrower. One evokes peace, serenity, and

even sadness, while the other was created to honor the strength and skill required for

competitive sporting events. During this process, you'll examine the artist and the time

period in which they lived, as well as the innate qualities of the work, such as the subject

matter, the medium used to depict the subject, and the overall tone of the piece.

Evaluate the Techniques of the Work

Now it's time to delve deeper into the techniques used to create the work. Why did the

artist choose to depict this particular subject? What was the artist saying about the

subject? Why would he or she have used clay or oils or photography to make the point?

Evaluate the colors (is it dark and sinister or light and breezy?). Examine the shapes and

forms used to make up the work (sharp angles or flowing lines?). How do these elements

tell the story intended by the artist?

Discuss Interpretation of the Work

This process is more subjective than the first two. This is where the nuts and bolts (who

and how and what) morph into feelings, impressions, and conclusions -- all quite

subjective. It's important to note that the enjoyment of art is quite a subjective thing.

There are no "right" and "wrong" answers. Each viewer of the piece should draw their

own conclusions. During the interpretative process, discuss what the work says to you.

Does it make you long for simpler times? Yearn for young love? Cry for the woes of

war? Identify symbols within the piece that the artist might have used to evoke these

emotions.

Analyze and Evaluate the Work

Evaluation is the process of assigning value to the piece. Using what you've determined

up to this point, how do you feel that the work stands in terms of importance to history?

How is it relevant to other pieces, both of its own time and within the vast history of art?

Are there areas in which the work falls short of providing true value to the viewer? Be

prepared to defend your position, because not everyone will agree with your

interpretation. Art is meant to speak to the viewer, and if the artist has evoked strong

emotions in you (either positive or negative) their job is well done.

The best way to learn how to analyze and critique artwork is to spend time practicing.

Visit the museums and galleries in your hometown. Make a point to take in museums and

exhibits in the cities where you travel. When you're ready to put your skills to the test,

enjoy an art themed cruise, where you can enjoy sharing your observations with others

and hearing their opinions, as well.

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