Understanding Visual Art Forms in Our World is specifically designed for the novice seeking an introduction to the visual arts, as well as current art-related issues. This text provides an opportunity for all to understand, enjoy and experience art. Art theory and history are presented in a straightforward and accessible manner. Well-known works of art from around the world and across time are organized thematically. Appendices include tips for writing about art, as well as directions for composing formal analyses and research papers.
What Is Art?
Composition: The Elements of Art and Principles of Design
The Elements of Art Line
Line and Movement: Jesśs Raphael Soto
Shape and Mass
Space
Value, Light, and Color
Texture
Time and the Temporal Arts
The Principles of Design
Balance
Contrast, Emphasis, and Focal Points
Rhythm
Unity and Variety
Scale and Proportion
Writing about Art: Description
Writing about Art: Formal Analysis
Sample Formal Analysis of Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night
Expository Writing
Comparison Essay
Looking at and Interpreting Art
Looking at Art
Connoisseurship
Formalism
Formalism and Modernism
Iconography
Social or Cultural Analysis
Biographical Analysis
Psychoanalytical Interpretation
Feminist Analysis
Marxist Analysis
Gay and Lesbian Theory
Post-Colonial Analysis
You Are the Critic: Exhibition Review
Writer's Workshop
The Writing Process
Basic Format for Academic Papers
How to Construct a Thesis Statement
Writing a Research Paper
Sample Citation Formats for the Chicago Manual of Style
Some Additional Tips for Writing about an Artifact
Advice for In-Class Writing or Essay Exams
Peer Critique Worksheet
Proofreading
Additional Advice for Non-Native English Speakers (ESL Students)
Endnotes
