SAMPLE Humanities

Size and scale of work: relationship to the person and/or frame and/or context

Elements or general shapes: architectural structure, painting with several figures lined up in a row How line describes shape and space: distinguish lines of objects and composition

Description of axis: vertical, diagonal, horizontal, etc.

Description of line: thick, thin, variable, irregular, intermittent, indistinct, etc.

Contour: soft, planar, jagged, etc.

Relationships between shapes: large and small, overlapping, etc.

Context of object: original location and date

Analyzing Criticism Analyzing criticism focuses on the merits of a work. It is used to determine what the features suggest and conclude what the artist wants to convey. Elements for analysis include:

Determination of subject matter through naming iconographic elements: historical events, allegory, mythology, etc.

Identification of most distinctive features or characteristics: line, shape, color, texture, etc.

Analysis of the principles of composition: stable, repetitious, rhythmic, unified, symmetrical, harmonious, geometric, varied, chaotic, horizontal or vertically oriented, etc. Treatment of space and landscape: both real and illusionary, e.g. compact, deep, shallow, naturalistic, random Perceptions of balance, proportion, andscale: relationships of each part of the composition to each other and asawhole

Determine how elements contribute to the appearance of an image or function

Analysis of the use of light and color: contrast, shadow, illogical, warm, cool, symbolic, etc.

Portrayal of movement and how it is achieved

Effect of medium(s) used

Interpretive Criticism The focus for interpretive criticism is on the content or the subject matter. It establishes a broader context for the type of art based on facts. The various elements that comprise interpretation include: ● Main idea behind the work ● Why did the artist create it, and what does it mean? ● The evidence within and outside the artwork that supports the interpretation To interpret, it is helpful to know about other artworks by the same artist or other artworks from the same style or art movement. It provides valuable insight into the reason for the artwork. Evaluative Criticism Evaluative criticism is judging a piece of work about other works by considering its originality. It determines the effectiveness of an artwork according to specific criteria that are established by its style and the art movement. A good evaluation is based on the description, analysis, and interpretation for support.

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