How To Understand a Work Of Art

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Learn to understand any artwork you come across in a fraction of the time it would take to get a degree in Art History.

To complete this How-To you will need:

A work of art
An inquisitive spirit

Step 1: Google

If you're trying to understand a famous work of art, a quick Google search will yield almost limitless information and countless explanations.

Step 2: Read the plaque

If you're stuck on your own, start by reading the title card or plaque. If it has a self-explanatory name like "I love ham," your work here is done.

Step 3: Question the location

Question the work's location. Is it a part of a larger exhibit? Is it grouped with other works that have a common theme?

Tip: Assume that everything in a work of art was created to support an idea. This might not always be the case, but it'll get you thinking about purpose and relevance.

Step 4: Check out historic connections

Check out any historic connections a piece may have. For example, if you're looking at a sculpture made in the late 1940s, there's a pretty good chance it has something to do with World War II.

Step 5: Appraise the values of the public

For public art, try to appraise the values of the intended demographic. Minimalist, towering sculptures appear outside minimalist, towering bank buildings for a reason.

Tip: Most public art is commercial and designed to satisfy a need. Often that need is simply to add something interesting to an open space without insulting or angering.

Step 6: Ask yourself what you like

If the work is designed for the home, ask yourself what you like. It's going to be hanging on your wall, after all.

Step 7: Tell a story

Imagine telling a story about the work of art, or being the artist and describing it to other people. Sometimes talking it through like this will help you make new observations or connections.

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Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• art
• fine
• museum
• howcast
• howto
• picasso

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