Assignment:
Use the following questions to assist you in "reading" an artwork. 
Choose any piece of art that moves you, which you find fascinating. 
Study the piece you choose and use your observations to write answers to the following questions. 
Write an evaluation, essay or discussion, of your chosen illustration. 
Either include an image of the artwork or clear information on where it can be found. 


Questions to ask in forming an objective response to a work of art
1. Is there a caption or supporting information? What does this caption tell you about the artwork?
2. What type of artwork is illustrated? Medium? Size?
3. What can you say objectively (i.e. without possible disagreement) about the work illustrated? 
4. How does this work compare with other works by the same artist?
5. Can you place the work in relation to any particular style, period, or school?


Questions to ask in forming a subjective response to a work of art.
1. How do you respond to the subject? 
2. What role does craftsmanship and technical skill play in the experience of this artwork?
3. How do you feel subjectively about the work? 
Does it attract, repel, puzzle, shock, or intrigue you --or does it leave you cold? Why?
4. Are there patterns that intrigue and engage you in the artwork?
Are you interested in such things as texture, scale, design and organization? 
5. Does the work of art have a relationship to the life of the artists? Is it biographical?
6. How does the artwork relate to world events and history of its time?
7. Is there a philosophic content? How does this effect your reaction to the work of art? 
8. Is the artwork successful in your opinion and why? 

*Adapted from George Sackman's "How to read Art Illustrations", Cosumnes River College.