Looking at a Painting Humanties

What to look for in paintings... Subject Technique Symbolism Space & Light Historical Style Your Personal Interpretation

Subject Is the subject religious, mythological or secular? Why did the artist make this choice? Does the painting tell a story you know—or should know? Is there a message? What assumption is the artist making about his audience? For whom does he paint?

Technique What medium did the artist employ? What material is he painting on? Canvas? Wood? Plaster? What material is he painting with? Oils? Pastels? Water colors?

Symbolism Objects carry meaning. Search the whole painting for clues. Artists use allusion and allegory to add depth to what they are trying to tell you. An allusion calls something to mind without expressing it directly. An allegory is an object that represents an idea.

Space & Light An artist uses space and light to create a three-dimensional effect in two dimensions. Artist or artistic movements have signature approaches to dealing with the issues around space and light.

Historical Style Every historical period develops a recognizable style. Each style starts in reaction to the artistic movement that preceded it. Styles often reflect the times in which they began or were later popular. Each period’s artists lead the way.

Your Personal Interpretation Art, at bottom, is one person talking to another. The language may be unusual, but it’s still communication. Remember that what you like in art says more about you than it does the work itself. Knowledge of art history, symbolism and technical skill will help you understand art.

So, what makes a masterpiece? Virtuosity Innovation Patronage (with some notable exceptions) Artistic Vision Role of the Artist

Virtuosity How do we judge outstanding performances in athletes... musicians... actors...? A great artist must have complete mastery of the physical skills required for the job. An artist also should have the knowledge and imagination to use these skills to new limits.

Innovation Does the artist rewrite existing rules of art? Does the artist offer an new visual language? Does it challenge—and extend—existing artistic boundaries?

Patronage Before 1800, most major works of art were commissioned by wealthy patrons. These patrons told the painter what to paint. After the Romantic Movement (early 1800s) were painters seen as isolated artists who painted their inner vision.

Artistic Vision Great art express the artists’ total belief in, and commitment to, what their patrons ask them to paint. In other words, artists had to believe in their paintings.

Role of the Artist Great art is not discovered posthumously. Great art must stand out from the crowd, which takes courage and individuality. Great art stands the test of time.