Get Into Observation Mode
The analysis of a work of art or design starts with making observations. When looking at art and design objects, pay close attention to visual elements such as line, shape, form, value, color, texture, and space. Take your time and practice "slow looking" (see below).
- Tate Gallery: A Guide to Slow LookingHelpful tips and exercises on slowing the process of looking at art.
Great Video Series on the Elements of Art
The video series from KQED, The Elements of Art, provides a really good overview of the different visual elements you can pay attention to when analyzing your work or art or design.
Art Research Paper Mindmap
The diagram above shows a number of factors that might be relevant to your work of art or design. Some of these are visual elements like line and shape. Others are conceptual such as how the idea of time is represented in your work or how does a work deal with a social or economic issue like consumerism. By no means exhaustive, this map of thematic directions offers a lot of different possibilities to explore. How are some of the elements or principles illustrated in the diagram evident in your work? Are there others not shown that characterize your art or design piece?