6.5: Methods for Evaluating Art

The study of art involves various methods that help us understand, interpret, and appreciate art sincerely. From observing closely with the "See, Think Wonder" method to analyzing artwork in detail with Feldman's Four Step Critique, these approaches offer different ways to explore art. They help us see beyond the surface, uncovering the stories, emotions, and ideas behind each piece. By learning these methods, we gain the skills to connect more profoundly with art, enhancing our appreciation and allowing us to discover the rich meanings that art brings to our lives. This introduction will lead you through the essential methods used in evaluating art, providing you with the critical tools to engage with art more meaningfully.⁷⁹

Emotional Meaning in Art

Art is a powerful way to express and explore emotions. Artists investigate how their work connects to their feelings and experiences and how it might affect viewers:
• Personal Connection: Reflecting on the personal experiences and emotions in their art.
• Emotional Impact: Thinking about how their art makes themselves and viewers feel.
• Use of Symbols: They use symbols and metaphors to express complex ideas.
• Telling Stories: Assessing how well they convey stories or messages that emotionally connect
with people.

Self-evaluation is crucial for artists wanting to grow personally and professionally. By assessing their
technical skills and the emotional depth of their work, artists gain insights into their creative expression
and its impact. This reflective practice improves their abilities and ideas and makes their art more
meaningful and authentic to themselves and their audience.⁸⁰

"See Think Wonder" Method for Observing Art

The "See Think Wonder" method, as the J. Paul Getty Museum advocates, encourages students to engage with art through observation, interpretation, and inquiry. Initially, students are instructed to "See" by closely observing an artwork and noting the visible details without making judgments. This step emphasizes the importance of acknowledging every element of the piece. Following this, students are asked to "Think" about what they have observed. This involves making educated guesses about the artwork, including its possible meanings, the emotions it evokes, or the artist's intentions. Finally, the "Wonder" phase allows students to express curiosity, posing questions about the artwork's context, creation process, or impact on viewers. This method enhances visual literacy and cultivates a habit of thoughtful questioning and exploration.⁸¹

“The Four-Step Critique Method

Edmund Feldman's "Four Step Critique Method" offers a systematic approach to art criticism, breaking down the process into four distinct phases. The first step, "Description," asks students to articulate what they see in the artwork, including its subject matter and the use of elements such as line, shape, and color. Moving to the "Analysis" phase, attention shifts to how the artwork is organized, with students examining the application of design principles like balance, rhythm, and emphasis. The "Interpretation" step
encourages students to speculate about the underlying meanings or messages of the artwork, considering the artist's possible intentions and the work's emotional or symbolic dimensions. Finally, "Judgment" allows students to evaluate the artwork's effectiveness, aesthetic value, or significance within a cultural or historical context. This systematic critique process not only sharpens analytical skills but also deepens students' appreciation for the multifaceted nature of art.

Self-Evaluation Techniques in Art

Self-evaluation is vital for artists to reflect on their growth and creative path. This process helps artists become more aware of themselves and their work, encouraging them to keep learning and evolving. Artists analyze their art and experiences, paying attention to their skills and the deeper meanings behind their creations. This is not just about judging technical skills but about understanding the emotions, ideas, and cultural influences shaping their art.

Artists can use checklists to evaluate their skills in areas such as:

• Handling of Medium: How well they use their chosen art materials.
• Composition and Design: Their ability to effectively arrange elements in their art.
• Color Use: Understanding and applying color to enhance their work.
• Idea Development: How they develop and express ideas through art.
• Critical Thinking: The ability to critique their and others' work to better understand art.
• These checklists help artists identify what they are good at and where they can improve, setting
goals for growth.⁸