Art analysis and writing about art t ips

ART OF FRANCEDURING THE 18TH CENTURY

There are four things that make up a great piece of writing about art:DescriptionAnalysis InterpretationEvaluation

Utilize each of these stages to develop a holistic view of the artwork.

WRITING ABOUT ART

Describe what you actually see in the artwork. How would you describe the

painting to a stranger?

List the following: Name of the artist, title of

the work and where is it located?

Questions to consider: What is your first impression

of the work? How do you first react to it? There are no wrong answers here.

DESCRIBE

How would you describe this painting?

PORTRAIT OF MADAME DE POMPADOUR

Painting information: Artist: François Boucher Year: 1759 Located: Wallace Collection

Considered an example of a Rococo portraits.

Rococo Painting Style: Depicts everyday life Often subject is aristocrats

in leisure activities. Influenced art, interior

design, and statues.

ANALYZE

Figure out why this is considered a good piece of artwork.

Use these questions to determine why it is: What grabs your attention in

the work? Are colors used well? Why or

why not?

Remember the elements of art: Color, line, shape, form, space,

and texture. Describe how those elements

are used.How would you analyze this painting?

THE HAPPY ACCIDENTS OF THE SWING

Painting information: Artist: Jean-Honoré

Fragonard Year: 1767 Located: Wallace Collection

Considered a masterpiece of Rococo Style.

Depicts a young woman swinging with a young man in the grass and a old man pushing her. Notice the statues each

male figure is next to.

INTERPRET

Try to figure out what the work is about.

Artists usually create art because the have something to say.

Questions to ask: What is the mood of the

artwork?, What do you think the work is about?, Why do you think the artist created it?

What is the purpose of this painting?

Painting information: Artist: Jacques-Louis David Year: 1793 Located: Musées Royaux des

Beaux-Arts at Brussels

David’s paintings known for polit ical activism.

Depicts the death of Revolutionary leader Jean-Paul Marat Scientist by trade, journalist

during the revolution. Championed human rights

THE DEATH OF MARAT

EVALUATE

Reflect on everything you've written about

Answer these questions for evaluation:

1.Have your thoughts or feelings about the artwork

changed since your first impression. If so, how?

2.What made you change your mind?

3.If not, can you explain your first reaction to the work of

art?

4.What have you seen or learned from this work that you

might apply to your own way of thinking?

You will work in assigned groups to:

Find a significant work of art, painting or sculpture, that was created by a French and/or English artist during 18 th Century.

Create a Prezi that: Provides a picture of the artwork. Provides information related to all four phases related

to writing about art. Has appropriate supporting detail. Be sure that all members participate in the

presentation.

ASSIGNMENT

Monday, 11/10/14:Define group roles.Research different art pieces from the primary

art styles of the time. Identify 3 to 4 pieces of artwork.Select 1 piece of artwork to compile research on.Outline Research.

Friday (14 th), Monday (17 th):Conduct research related to chosen artwork.Create a Prezi to share with the class.

TIMELINE

Each group will come up and present.

Each member should contribute to presentation in some form or fashion.

Norms:Be respectful to others presenting, aka no talking.

Actively engage in learning about the piece of art.

PRESENTATIONS