Evaluating an Analysis
Art critics should use logical reasoning and support their arguments using visual evidence. Choose one of the sample student analysis essays from the website and find the work of art it references. Read the analysis and look at the artwork. Then, answer the following:
Does the essay accurately describe the artwork? Does it mention the important features that make the artwork distinctive? Explain.
Do you think the writer’s arguments make sense based on the visual evidence?
Do you find the arguments convincing? Why or why not?
How would you have analyzed this art? What different points would you have made, and why?
To evaluate the analysis of a sample student essay, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Visit the website and locate the sample student analysis essay.
2. Read the essay, ensuring that you understand the main arguments and points made by the writer.
3. Identify the work of art that the essay references by either searching for it on the website or using the provided information.
4. Look at the artwork and compare it to the description provided in the essay.
5. Determine if the essay accurately describes the artwork and mentions the important features that make it distinctive by comparing the actual artwork to the essay's description.
6. Consider if the writer's arguments make sense based on the visual evidence by analyzing how well the writer supports their arguments with relevant visual details from the artwork.
7. Evaluate if you find the arguments convincing by assessing whether the writer's reasoning is logical and persuasive, and if their evidence adequately supports their claims.
If you were to analyze the art yourself, you would have to consider different points that you find significant in the artwork. These points could include:
1. Subject matter: Analyzing the subject matter of the artwork and discussing its significance or symbolism.
2. Composition: Analyzing the arrangement of elements within the artwork, such as the use of space, lines, shapes, colors, and textures.
3. Technique: Examining the artist's use of specific techniques or styles and discussing how they contribute to the overall effect or meaning of the artwork.
4. Context: Considering the historical, cultural, or social context in which the artwork was created and how it might influence its interpretation.
5. Impact: Reflecting on the emotional or intellectual response the artwork evokes and discussing how its intended meaning is conveyed.
By considering these different points, you would provide a comprehensive analysis of the artwork, addressing aspects that the original writer may have overlooked or taking a different perspective. However, it is important to keep in mind that there can be multiple valid interpretations and analyses of any given artwork.