Find two works of art: the first one two-dimensional, the second three-dimensional. For each one, write four sentences describing the elements present in the work using the Formalist Method.

Art Appreciation Assignment

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I. Objective Description & Subjective Analysis

Find two works of art: the first one two-dimensional, the second three-dimensional. For each one, write four sentences describing the elements present in the work using the Formalist Method.

This method describes what you see in a totally objective way.

Do not refer to any subject matter. Remember, be objective in your descriptions. An example might be; “The work uses a majority of organic shapes”, or “It uses the complimentary colors yellow and violet for contrast”.

Then, for each work, write one sentence that describes your subjective reaction. An example might be “The artwork has a chaotic feeling to it”, or “Looking at the work made me feel lonely”

2. The Formalist Method

Understanding the formalist method helps us to look at art in a new way. It’s important to understand the Formalist method of looking at artwork because it will allow us to understand STYLE, the aesthetic values or physical techniques used in making art, and FORM,the way a work of art looks.

Use an objective description of what you see; remember, there is no subjective reaction to the artwork involved.

Describe what you see using only the artistic elements.

 

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