Blog post #4 Formal analysis

 

Formal analysis is the examination of a piece of artwork by describing three different aspects from it.  These aspects are the artwork’s formal properties, subject matter and historical context.  When examining formal properties, the examiner must look at the medium used to compose the art itself, the colors used, the dimensions, the canvas, and all other properties that relate to the art’s aesthetics.  Subject matter of an artwork is sometimes obvious, as with “The Creation of Adam” by Michelangelo.  With artwork that is less direct and more interpretative, this is where the examiner’s knowledge of art will shine.  Historical context will also help an examiner further understand the subject matter.  Historical context can play into artists’ influences, intentions and state of mind.

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