A review of an artist
1. Give the name of the artist, title of the object (in italics), date, medium, dimensions, and current location. In
other words, include specific information about the work of art in the first paragraphs. Don’t start by saying how
much you like or don’t the work of art, “the artist succeeded,” or what you think the object “means.”
Imagine you are describing the object to someone via the telephone without an image. In brief, begin by writing
a brief objective general description of it.
2. Discuss the elements of composition and principles of design you think are important for understanding and
appreciating the work.
3. Discuss the medium and how the artist exploited the particular qualities of the medium.
4. Refer to the artist by the last name, not the first. You were not a personal friend of Pablo (Picasso) There are
some exceptions such as Leonard, Michelangelo, Raphael, etc. Many Renaissance artists are referred to by
their first name—so follow your sources.
6. Read what art historians and critics have written about this work or other works by the artist that relate. How
did this information add to your appreciation of the object?
7. Conclude with your personal thoughts about the work based upon your observations.
You will find useful ideas for thinking and writing about art in S. Barnett’s A Short Guide to Writing about Art,
but the information I have provided should be a useful guide.
Elements: Line; Color; Shape; Value; Texture; Space, Time and Motion
Principles of Design: Unity and variety; balance; movement; emphasis and focal point(s); proportion and scale;
rhythm and repetition; economy
