This type of paper is referred to as Formal Analysis or Visual Analysis. It is a description and analysis of the “form” of a work of art, especially how the visual elements and design principles contribute to its visual power and meaning. In a visual analysis, you will not consider issues such as the artist’s biography, or what was happening historically when the work was made. You will focus only on what is visually evident.

Your Assignment

You will write a concise 750 – 900 word short essay based on a work of art that you actually view and not a reproduction. This is not a research paper, but is a paper based on your own observations and original thought. I expect you to use and integrate key concepts and terminology from class.

Opening Description: One Paragraph

Describe the overall work as you would to someone who hasn’t seen it.

Paint a detailed picture with words. Your description should be so clear and specific that the reader can imagine the work of art in their mind as they read. Do not simply list what you see, but thoroughly describe the different areas of the work. Use lots of adjectives and avoid naming. Move from general to specific observations. If human figures are represented, describe their most dominant characteristics, including expressions, poses, gestures and how they are placed in relation to one another. If the work is non-representational, describe the most dominant elements, such as color, texture, light, etc. For example, if you describe a work of art with a clear arrangement of vertical or horizontal lines, you might refer to it as “calm” or “reserved”. This section should be a paragraph in length.

Topic Sentences

Write one clear and concise sentence at the beginning of each Formal Analysis paragraph (described in the next section)

Write a concise topic sentence that clearly states how a specific visual element or design principle is used, generally, to reinforce the power, meaning, emotion, or mood in the work of art that you select. This topic sentence will be the controlling argument for each paragraph in your Formal Analysis.

You are required to use bold type for your topic sentence.

Formal Analysis: Two Paragraphs

Paragraph 1: Thoroughly describe the use of a single visual element

In this paragraph, you will describe, in rich detail, how the artist used a specific visual element in different areas within the artwork. Be sure that your paragraph illustrates and support your topic sentence and conveys the significance of what you have observed. You must include between three and five specific supporting observations from your chosen art object. Each sentence in this part must be clear and descriptive. Please read the examples, below.

Example of Topic Sentence that includes a Visual Element

In Impression: Sunrise, the artist, Monet, uses atmospheric perspective to evoke a sense of space that is both mysterious and convincing.

Example of Supporting Observation (your paper needs to include 5 supporting observations)

For example, compared to the sharply defined details of the figures in the foreground of Monet’s painting, the figures in the background seem to dissolve into the distant haze.

Paragraph 2: Thoroughly describe the use of a single principle of design

In this paragraph, you will describe, in rich detail, how the artist used a specific principle of design in different areas within the artwork. Be sure that your paragraph illustrates and support your topic sentence and conveys the significance of what you have observed. You must include between three and five specific supporting observations from your chosen art object. Each sentence in this part must be clear and descriptive. Please read the examples, below.

Example of Topic Sentence that includes a Principle of Design

In (Links to an external site.)The Incredulity of Saint Thomas, the artist, Caravaggio uses directional forces to lead the viewer through the narrative of the painting.

Example of Supporting Observation (your paper needs to include 5 supporting observations)

For example, on the left side of the painting, the figure of Thomas points toward the wound in Jesus’ abdomen, which reminds us of Christ’s suffering.

Writing Guidelines

1. Organize what you plan to say before you write.
2. Write concise and complete sentences that clearly convey what you intend to say.
3. Be sure that sentences are in a logical order and make sense.
4. Use third person, present tense, as this will simplify and clarify your sentence structure.
5. As much as possible, do not refer to yourself or frequently say “I”.
6. Never use colloquial words and phrases, such as “that color pops out”.
7. Fix all spelling errors, sentence fragments, or other grammar and syntax problems.
8. Support your statements with careful observations about the art.

DOWN BELOW I HAVE ATTACHED:

1. THE IMAGE YOU MUST USE FOR THIS ANALYSIS PLUS THE DESCRIPTION THAT WAS IN THE ART MUSEUM

2. THE RUBRIC

3. THE VISIUAL ELEMENTS AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES GUIDE