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ARTS 301-01 World Art Survey I ESSAY ASSIGNMENT Due Date: November 20 during class Length: Minimum of 1000 words (4 - 5 double spaced, typed pages at 12 pt.) Subject: Go to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (located in Richmond at the corner of the Boulevard and Grove Avenue) or another museum that you have access to and select two (2) pieces on display that are from the historical periods and geographic areas we are covering in this class. The selected pieces must be from different cultures, but have the same basic use within their respective cultures (political power, religious image, etc.). Carefully access each piece for content (subject matter), formal elements (line, shape/volume, value, color, texture, etc.), and composition (balance, rhythm, repetition, proportion, emphasis, unity, and variety). The paper will present a comparative analysis of your chosen pieces, in which you compare and comtrast their respective media, styles, compositions, and techniques. Be sure to bring into your analysis such design aspects as form, intended function (context), technique, light, space, color, etc. The second part of the paper is a commentary, based on this comparative analysis, of the similar conceptual and stylistic techniques used to visually convey the intended meaning of the pieces. This essay is not to be treated as a research paper. You do not need to find out any history and/or information on your selected piece other than what is presented on the museum label. This essay is intended as an exercise in formal analysis and critical thinking about art. The information will be gathered through careful observation, analysis of the piece's content, and analysis of your own (and perhaps others') reactions to it. If other sources are used to assist you in background information, please make proper reference either through footnotes or within the text. Please use the writing guidelines found in the WRITE manual for proper form and procedures. Required Appendices: For each piece you select, please copy exactly the following information from the museum's label: Artist Name
Nationality, Dates
Title of Piece, Date
Medium (materials)
You are also to attach either a photograph, slide, or drawing of the piece you have selected. |
