A Modern Venus

Description

Instructions: We are all familiar with the notion regarding art as being subjective, or open to our own personal interpretation. Art does, however, utilize important visual principles during the process of creation. What is being offered is an opportunity to practice some of the principles and ideas that have been introduced in this online class by visiting a museum or hunting down a piece of public art.
Choose one work of art from a museum or public space and write a critique about the piece. In addition to thinking critically about the chosen artwork, utilize the visual toolbox and the principles of design to further support your views/impressions. What thoughts come to mind about the subject matter? As a viewer, what were your first impressions? How did the artwork impact you? Was the artwork effective, and if so, how? These are questions to consider when critically thinking and writing about art.

Be sure to elaborate when stating your critical thoughts. One thing to keep in mind is that a critique is academic. It is a means of dissecting the visual elements of the artwork that make it visually effective or unsuccessful. This academic approach also supports the overall impact and impressions the work has on the viewer. Be sure to include a photo of the artwork that you have chosen, and for you museum goers, include an image of your ticket. If you were not allowed to snap a pic of the artwork in the museum, an image found online will do, but don’t forget the ticket pic.

The essay must be a word processed document of at least 1 1/2 pages in length. In addition, where applicable, works must be cited, and if so, a bibliography must accompany the essay at the end. Formats that you can use are either MLA or APA. Either one will be acceptable. As college students, the writing should be at a professional level, therefore include perfect grammar and punctuation.

Helpful Hints

Observe and describe the ‘visual’ facts.

What is it about the piece that stands out most?

What are some of the strongest compositional elements (visual planning/placement of objects)?

How do the visual relationships – patterns, movement, proportion, etc., engage you?

Choose a mural from this site http://www.muralsoflajolla.com/ to do the piece on.