Mid-Term assignment
Please refer to the rubric under files (make sure to include a photograph in your submission)- this rubric will be used to grade your mid-term assignment
You are to choose ONE artist – you can use your book or search for yourself (I have included a few videos of artists at the bottom of the module as well). All visual arts will be considered; if you have questions as to a particular artist please reach out.
This paper is five paragraphs minimum, 12 pt font, double spaced, and should be formatted using Feldman’s model for critiquing art. If you produce one paragraph for each of the four headings and an introduction paragraph you should reach your paragraph count – remember that a paragraph is at least three sentences in length. Your interpretation of the work (IE step four) should be the longest and most in-depth section of your paper.
Include a title page which should be the artist’s name, your name below, centered and bolded at the top of your page (this first page should only include this information).
You should start looking for your artist as soon as possible so that you can properly research the history and artistic style of the artist you chose – waiting till the last minute will not produce good work.
As with last week, there will be no discussion post – I want all of your focus to be on the mid-term assignment.
This assignment is due Sunday, October 20th by 11:59 pm.
*your assignment will be evaluated for originality using a plagiarism tool
Feldman’s Method of Art Criticism: Examining a Single Artist
Edmund Feldman’s method provides a structured approach to analyzing art. Here’s a breakdown of the steps you can follow to evaluate a single artist (you may choose from the videos below) and their work using this method:
1. Description:
Start by objectively observing the artworks.
Focus on what you see:
What are the subjects depicted (if any)?
What colors, lines, shapes, and textures are used?
How is the space organized within the artwork (composition)?
Make a detailed list of all the visual elements you encounter.
2. Analysis:
Now, delve deeper into how the elements work together.
Ask yourself questions like:
How do the colors and shapes interact?
How does the use of lines create a sense of movement or balance?
How does the artist use light and shadow?
Consider the techniques used by the artist (painting style, sculpting techniques, etc.) and how they contribute to the overall effect.
3. Interpretation:
Based on your observations and analysis, what do you think the artist might be trying to convey?
Look for deeper meaning:
Is there a mood or emotion evoked by the artwork?
Does it reference historical events, cultural symbols, or social issues?
Consider the artist’s background and the period when the work was created – this context might offer clues to the meaning.
Remember, there can be multiple interpretations of an artwork, so discuss possibilities and avoid definitive statements.
4. Judgment (Evaluation):
Finally, based on your analysis and interpretation, form your judgment about the artwork.
Consider:
How effectively does the artist use the elements and principles of art?
Does the artwork achieve its intended effect?
Is it original, thought-provoking, or technically impressive?
Remember, art appreciation is subjective. Your evaluation should be supported by the observations and analysis you conducted in the previous steps.
Applying the Method to a Single Artist:
Repeat this process for several artworks by the same artist to fully understand the work you are critiquing.
Look for recurring themes, styles, techniques, and subjects in their work.
As you analyze more pieces, consider how the artist’s work has developed or changed over time.
This will give you a more comprehensive understanding of the artist’s approach and artistic voice.
By following these steps, you can use Feldman’s Method to develop a deeper appreciation for the work of a particular artist. Remember, this is a framework, not a rigid formula. Feel free to adapt it to your observations and interests.