ELEMENTS OF ART AND THE PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN

There are seven elements in art. They are color, form, line, shape, space, texture, and value.

The ten common principles of art are balance, emphasis, harmony, movement, pattern, proportion, repetition,
rhythm, unity, and variety.

Elements of Art
Color: Color is the visual perception seen by the human eye. The modern color wheel is designed to explain
how color is arraigned and how colors interact with each other. In the center of the color wheel, are the three
primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. The second circle is the secondary colors, which are the two primary
colors mixed. Red and blue mixed together form purple, red, and yellow, form orange, and blue and yellow,
create green. The outer circle is the tertiary colors, the mixture of a primary color with an adjacent secondary
color.

1.25 Color Wheel

Color contains characteristics, including hue, value, and saturation. Primary hues are also the
primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. When two primary hues are mixed, they produce
secondary hues, which are also the secondary colors: orange, violet, and green. When two colors
are combined, they create secondary hues, creating additional secondary hues such as yellow-
orange, red-violet, blue-green, blue-violet, yellow-green, and red-orange.

Value: refers to how adding black or white to color changes the shade of the original color, for
example, in (1.26). The addition of black or white to one color creates a darker or lighter color
giving artists gradations of one color for shading or highlighting in a painting.
 1.26 Hue, saturation, and value

Saturation: the intensity of color, and when the color is fully saturated, the color is the purest form or
most authentic version. The primary colors are the three fully saturated colors as they are in the purest
form. As the saturation decreases, the color begins to look washed out when white or black is added.
When a color is bright, it is considered at its highest intensity.

1.27 Saturation

Form: Form gives shape to a piece of art, whether it is the constraints of a line in a painting or the edge
of the sculpture. The shape can be two-dimensional, three-dimensional restricted to height and weight,
or it can be free-flowing. The form also is the expression of all the formal elements of art in a piece of
work.
 1.28 Form

Line: A line in art is primarily a dot or series of dots. The dots form a line, which can vary in thickness,
color, and shape. A line is a two-dimensional shape unless the artist gives it volume or mass. If an artist
uses multiple lines, it develops into a drawing more recognizable than a line creating a form resembling the
outside of its shape. Lines can also be implied as in an action of the hand pointing up, the viewer's eyes
continue upwards without even a real line.

1.29 Line

Shape: The shape of the artwork can have many meanings. The shape is defined as having some sort of
outline or boundary, whether the shape is two or three dimensional. The shape can be geometric (known
shape) or organic ;

Some examples of organic shapes include leaves, clouds, and mountains. A leaf is considered an organic
shape, and it has defined lines, though it is not geometric or mathematical. It could be drawn in any
number of ways and would still be an organic shape of a leaf.
 Geometric Shapes
Here is the list of different geometric shapes that we learn in geometry.

Three Dimensional
Two Dimensional Shapes
Shapes
 Triangle
 Circle
 Semi-Circle
 Square  Sphere
 Rectangle  Cube
 Parallelogram  Cuboid
 Rhombus  Cone
 Trapezium  Cylinder
 Kite
 Polygons (Pentagon, Hexagon, Octagon, Nonagon, Decagon,
etc.)

Types and Properties of Geometric Shapes

Go through the different types of shapes in geometry along with definitions here.

Triangle

Triangle is a polygon, which is made of three sides and consists of three edges and three vertices.
Also, the sum of its internal angles equals to 180o.

Circle

Locus of all points at a fixed distance from a reference central point is called a Circle.

Square

Square is a quadrilateral where all the four sides and angles are equal and the angles at all the
vertices are equal to 90° each.

Rectangle

A quadrilateral has two pairs of opposite sides equal in length and interior angles are at the right
angles.
Parallelogram

A parallelogram is a quadrilateral with two pairs of parallel sides and opposite angles are equal
in measure.

Polygons

These are made up of line segments and no curves. They are enclosed structures based on
different lengths of sides and different angles.

Figures of 2d Shapes

Names of 2D Geometric Shapes Figure

Circle

Semicircle

Oval
Triangle

Square

Rectangle

Parallelogram

Rhombus
Trapezium

Kite

Pentagon

Hexagon

Heptagon
Octagon

Nonagon

Decagon

Three-Dimensional Shapes

Most of the three-dimensional shapes can be defined as a set of vertices, lines that connect the
vertices and faces enclosed by these lines including obtained interior points. For many three
dimensional shapes, faces are two-dimensional. Also, some shapes in three dimensions have
curves surfaces. In three dimensions, the primary shapes are:

 Cube
 Cuboid
 Cone
 Cylinder
 Sphere

These can be better understood with the help of the table given below:

Names of 3D
geometric shapes
 Figure Definition

A cube is a three-dimensional shape which has 6

faces, 8 vertices and 12 edges. The faces of the cube
Cube are square.

Example: A Rubik’s cube

A cuboid is also three dimensional solid having 6

faces, 8 vertices and 12 edges but the faces of the
Cuboid cuboid are in a rectangular shape.

Example: Matchbox

A cone is a solid which has a circular base and

narrows smoothly from the surface to the top at a
Cone point called apex or vertex.

Example: An icecream cone

A cylinder is a 3d solid shape that has two parallel

circular bases connected by a curved surface. It has no
Cylinder vertex.

Example: Gas cylinder

A sphere is a round shape in a 3d plane, whose radius

is extended to three dimensions (x-axis, y-axis and z-
Sphere axis).

Example: Ball

Open and Closed Figures

A point is a small dot which is the starting point of a line segment. By definition, a line segment
is a part of a line in which a narrow lane is connecting two points within a line. Different
numbers of line segments give us different figures and such figures may be either open figures or
closed shapes or figures.

Closed Shapes

Geometric shapes such as a square, rectangles, and triangles are a few basic 2D shapes. These
figures are collectively called polygons. A polygon is any flat shape or plane on a surface of a
paper. They have a finite closed boundary made up of a fixed number of line segments and are
called sides of the polygon. Each side meets at a common point called corners (vertex).

Such bounded geometric shapes like polygons are called closed figures. A boundary of a closed
figure is not only made of line segments but also of curves. Hence, a closed figure can be defined
as any geometric shape which starts and ends at the same point to form a boundary by line
segments or by curves.

Open Shapes

Open figures are incomplete shapes. To sketch a closed figure one has to meet both the starting
point and ending point. Open figures are also depicted by using line segments or by curves but at
least the lines will be discontinuous. An open figure’s starting and endpoints are different.
Different Shapes

In our daily existence, we may observe different shapes which look exactly the same as some
three-dimensional geometric shapes.

Apart from the above examples, there are other objects in our surroundings such as traffic cones,
Rubik’s cubes, pyramids and so on. Observe the below figure, to understand the different shapes
that relate to geometric shapes.
(free form shape). Space and shape go together in most artworks.
1.30 Shape

Space: Space is the area around the focal point of the art piece and might be positive or negative,
shallow or deep, open, or closed. Space is the area around the art form; in the case of a building,
it is the area behind, over, inside, or next to the structure. The space around a structure or other
artwork gives the object its shape. The children are spread across the picture, creating space
between each of them, the figures become unique.

1.31 Space
Texture: Texture can be rough or smooth to the touch, imitating a particular feel or sensation.
The texture is also how your eye perceives a surface, whether it is flat with little texture or
displays variations on the surface, imitating rock, wood, stone, fabric. Artists added texture to
buildings, landscapes, and portraits with excellent brushwork and layers of paint, giving the
illusion of reality.

1.32 Texture

TACTILE TEXTURE
The physical texture, also known as actual texture or tactile texture, refers to the
patterns of variations found on a solid surface. These can encompass a wide range
of materials, including but not limited to fur, canvas, and wood grain, sand, and
leather, satin, eggshell, matte, or smooth surfaces like metal or glass.

SIMULATED TEXTURE

Implied texture, also referred to as visual texture or simulated texture, is texture that isn't
actually there, but looks like it should be
Principles of Art
Balance: The balance in a piece of art refers to the distribution of weight or the apparent weight
of the piece. Arches are built for structural design and to hold the roof in place, allowing for
passage of people below the arch and creating balance visually and structurally. It may be the
illusion of art that can create balance.

1.33 Balance

Contrast: Contrast is defined as the difference in colors to create a piece of visual art. For
instance, black and white is a known stark contrast and brings vitality to a piece of art, or it can
ruin the art with too much contrast. Contrast can also be subtle when using monochromatic
colors, giving variety and unity the final piece of art.
1.34 Contrast

Emphasis: Emphasis can be color, unity, balance, or any other principle or element of art used
to create a focal point. Artists will use emphasis like placing a string of gold in a field of dark
purple. The color contrast between the gold and dark purple causes the gold lettering to pop out,
becoming the focal point.

1.35 Emphasis

hythm/Movement: Rhythm in a piece of art denotes a type of repetition used to either

demonstrate movement or expanse. For instance, in a painting of waves crashing, a viewer will
automatically see the movement as the wave finishes. The use of bold and directional brushwork
will also provide movement in a painting.
1.36 Rhythm/Movement

Proportion/Scale: Proportion is the relationship between items in a painting, for example,

between the sky and mountains. If the sky is more than two-thirds of the painting, it looks out of
proportion. The scale in art is similar to proportion, and if something is not to scale, it can look
odd. If there is a person in the picture and their hands are too large for their body, then it will
look out of scale. Artists can also use scale and proportion to exaggerate people or landscapes to
their advantage.
 1.37
Proportion and Scale

Unity and variety: In art, unity conveys a sense of completeness, pleasure when viewing the art,
and cohesiveness to the art, and how the patterns work together brings unity to the picture or
object. As the opposite of unity, variety should provoke changes and awareness in the art piece.
Colors can provide unity when they are in the same color groups, and a splash of red can provide
variety.
1.38 Unity and Variety

Pattern: Pattern is the way something is organized and repeated in its shape or form and can
flow without much structure in some random repetition. Patterns might branch out similar to
flowers on a plant or form spirals and circles as a group of soap bubbles or seem irregular in the
cracked, dry mud. All works of art have some sort of pattern even though it may be hard to
discern; the pattern will form by the colors, the illustrations, the shape, or numerous other art
methods.

1.39 Pattern
 ART APPRECIATION AND CRITICISM

Art appreciation is a full awareness of all the good qualities in what we see, read and hear. It has
to do mainly with the art: i.e. Painting, Sculpture, Pottery, Jewelry, and textiles.

Art appreciation is intelligent discussion about work of art,. It also involves silence and deep
thinking about them. It entails intelligent enjoyment of everything in a work that can be enjoyed.

Appreciation in the arts plays an important role in our everyday lives when we choose and listen
to songs or sing then ,read, tell or listen to stories, watch films plays or drama and dance or
watch people dance,

The need for appreciation in our lives is shown by the existence of some organizations:

 National Commission on Culture.

 Centre for National Culture
 Association of Artist and Artistes
 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

These organizations aim at promoting the study, production, preservation and appreciation of
the arts at all stages of life.

 Art appreciation promotes understanding and friendship between people of different

cultures.
 It helps us to develop ideas about beauty
 It also helps us see individual artists or unknown arts of a period in relation to the
environment and to ourselves.
 Appreciation enables us to assess and appraise a work of art without passing judgement
on it.
 It involves studying works of art and trying to understand their meaning.

Reasons why adequate knowledge is necessary in the history of art appreciation

 The history in art also helps us in understanding the technique and medium used
by the artist, help us to appreciate the work well.
 History of art also involves reading and thinking about art though the ages and
making comparisons.
 History also helps us to investigate the artists rules and art (canons), styles and
creative ideas.
 Art history helps us to become familiar with great works and great artist.
 It also helps us to compare new works and old works
 Knowledge and understanding of art help to develop good taste
1. Taste is the quality of telling good art from bad art
2. Taste can be learned if we practice appreciation.

PROCEDURE IN ART APPRECIATION

A work of art may raise many questions in our minds when we see read and hear it.
What is art? Where does it come from? Where was it made? Who made it? Is it what it
pretends to be? Does it have a special form or it is just a copy of something else? It is
worth looking at, listening or reading? How does it fit into the artist culture in Ghana
Nigeria or Togo? What does it mean?
These questions and many more have to be answered intelligently and in an orderly
manner. There is a simple step –by-step method used in art appreciation to answer these
questions;

1. Identification of work ( tittle, artist, date, size, medium, location)

2. Inventory of items in the work of art (naming the items in the work and describing
their physical properties).
3. Technical qualities ( king of materials, tools, methods, design/composition and style)
4. Interpretation (meaning of work, function and its relation to culture)

APPLICATION OF PROCEDURE

Step 1: Identifying Work of Art

 State what the work is, e.g. Painting, textiles, sculpture etc.
 State the title of the work, e.g. A village scene
 State the name of the Artist. e.g. Kwame, Haruna etc. ( or, if the artist is not known, then
state that the artist is unknown or anonymous).
 State the date or the period when the work was done, e.g. January, 2024
 State the size of the work, e.g. 30 cm by 20cm high.
 State where the work can be found, its location or who owns it. e.g. in the collection of
the artist or in the Ghana National Museum, Accra.

Step 2: Giving the inventory of items in the work

 State or name all the objects seen in the work and describe them e.g. two round hoses
made of mud and roofed with thatch, cows grazing: a girl crying a brown pot on her
head and wearing a piece of cloth around her waist: a lean, brown dog chasing a hen
across the picture: two baobab trees and so on.
 State the characteristics or features of the items, e.g. the houses are decorated with
black and white patterns and there are cracks on their surfaces ;some of the thatches
 are falling off the roof; the half- naked girl is slim and she seems to be in a hurry; the
wind is partial blowing off her cloth but she does not care; and so on.

Step 3: Talking about the technical qualities of the work

 Sate the materials used by the artist in the work, e.g. Cartridge paper, poster
Colour and brushes;
 State the method of methods used by the artist, e.g. the colours are gently,
carefully and smoothly applied with the brush to the paper; the colours are
thickly applied and are not mixed with other colours so they are raw and strong;
the outline of the shapes are drawn with a thin brush in black.
 State the nature of composition or design, e.g. thev items drawn closed together or
scattered about in the picture; the items look real and show perspective. State how
the artist has use rhythm, balance, harmony and other element of design

Step 4: Interpreting the work

 State the atmosphere created in the picture, e.g. because the shadows are short and
strongly painted, it suggest a strong afternoon.
 Relate the items in the picture to the cultural background of the artist or the work,
e.g. the round houses with the thatch roofs are typical architecture of certain of
Northern Ghana, so the painting is perhaps a village scene in the Northern Ghana.
 State the uses or functions of the work, e.g. the painting shows an aspect of life in
Ghana; the animals in the painting gives us ideas of domestic animals found in the
part of Ghana; the girl carrying a pot suggests the source of water supply is in the
village; the picture is educating us about Ghana, it also painted to please us; it is
to be used for decorating the wall of a room.

ART APPRECIATION
Art Appreciation equips you with the vocabulary to understand and discuss the visual arts, while
introducing you to various mediums. Art helps create understanding of the world around us. It is
an essential part of cultures across the globe because it allows us to be open to new ideas and
experiences.
The Importance of Art Appreciation
The ability to appreciate art is crucial because it leads to a more informed and personal
connection with works of art, as well as a greater appreciation of the artist. Among the many
advantages of appreciating art are:

Cultural enrichment

Understanding the world and appreciating its great diversity can be enhanced by viewing works
of art from a variety of cultures and time periods.

Improved critical thinking skills

Skills in analysis, reflection, and problem-solving can be honed by close examination of works
of art and thoughtful consideration of their significance, context, and meaning.

Emotional growth

Engaging with works of art can elicit a range of feelings, all of which contribute to a person's
development in areas such as self-awareness, empathy.

Enhanced creativity

Improved inventiveness and artistic expression can result from exposure to and appreciation of
the arts.

Stress relief

Engaging with art has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by providing a welcome diversion
from the pressures of daily living.
The Importance of Art Appreciation
The term art encompasses a large variety of works, from paintings to sculptures, architecture to
design, and in modern times, digital art. Everyone can appreciate and marvel at art, and being
subjective in nature, different art forms appeal to different people. Art appreciation, however,
refers to the exploration and analysis of the art forms that we are exposed to. It can be highly
subjective, depending on an individual’s personal tastes and preferences, or can be done on the
basis of several grounds such as elements of design and mastery displayed in the piece. Art
appreciation also involves a deeper look into the setting and historical implication and
background of the piece, a study of its origins.

Art is dynamic, with new trends and styles emerging at a fast pace. However, the final attempt of
the artist is that it speaks to the viewer on a personal level and can be interpreted in a variety of
ways. Art opens up the stream of subconscious and intends to personally touch every person that
comes across it.

Art appreciation is extremely relevant for multiple reasons. It is a good way to understand the
history behind the work, and the period from which the piece originated. Artists often reflect the
problems that they face, and the issues of the society in their work. By analyzing and putting
ourselves in the mind of the artist, we can better study how differently society functioned then,
compared to now. We can empathize and relate to the problems they faced on a personal level.

Art is meant to stimulate thought and conversation between its viewers. By reflecting on a piece
of art, we delve into our own experiences and nostalgia, thus a piece of art means something
different to every person that comes across it. Art appreciation helps open up the mindset of the
people, by listening to different perspective and views as well as interpretations of the art, it
encourages thoughtful conversation and the understanding that there is more than one approach
to everything.

For many people, art is meant to express something that we ourselves feel unable to express or
convey. Through its visual medium it evokes feelings of joy, sadness, anger and pain. That is
why art appreciation is so important in bringing that one final element to complete the work, and
that is our interpretation. Our perspective brings the artwork to life as it changes for every person
around it.

It is important to foster art appreciation and analysis, as it helps us value the art in how it appeals
to us and what it means to each person. It delves into the history and the story behind the art, as
well as a look into the lives of the artists. It enables one to critically analyze a work, along lines
of design, mastery and techniques. Most importantly, however, art appreciation stimulates
though and analysis, provokes an individual to look past what meets the eye and open our mind
The Importance of Art

1. Art communicates feelings and emotions expressively and forcefully.

2. It connects people around the world.
3. It stimulates our thoughts when recreating the message of the artist.
4. It is a great tool for learning.
5. It reminds us of people’s selfless actions and what they believe in.
6. It serves as a source of inspiration and aesthetic pleasure.
7. It makes the surrounding look better an complete.
8. It commemorates certain occasions.
9. It transforms us into highly cultures an respectable human beings
10. It makes us human.

Ten reasons why art appreciation is important.

1. It is an important part of the human experience

Art creates a way to experience a very particular way of looking at the world. All humans have
visual receptors but are different in the way we use them. Some art is very appealing to one
person and not to the next.

Different artists display their visions in different ways. It is this beautiful diversity that enables
artists to experience and convey their point of view.

There are so many different styles of art that are all appreciated by different people. Art is a
vehicle for trying to understand what is going on in the world.

2. Art appreciation is an important skill for communication

Without knowing how to engage with art there would be no meaningful interactions with other
human beings.

For example, if someone never visits an art museum, they will not be able to contribute to
conversations about the art museum experience.

Without a general understanding of art, there would be no insight into how to appreciate other
kinds of artwork. A good art appreciator also understands technique and different art styles.

Art is our perception of reality through the use of our imagination. By knowing how to engage
with art, we also learn how to deal with other aspects of reality such as language and literature.

Art can enable and enhance many other aspects of our lives as well.

3. It gives you an entrance into another world

There is nothing quite like being in a gallery or museum and appreciating the artwork on display.
It is a unique and different kind of activity that is both educative and enjoyable.

People of all ages can experience the beauty and magic of an art museum.

It is easy to appreciate art because there is much that can be learned by observing, contemplating,
thinking and physically moving around an artwork.

4. The art world is a bit like a family

At the most basic level, the art world has its family, which is composed of galleries and
collectors. They are like extended families and you are always welcome to go visit them.

Many artists know each other and attend galleries and exhibits of one another. It is a nice niche
group to enter.

The galleries and collectors are natural advocates for their artists and they have access to the
latest and greatest works of art. If you are interested in a particular artist, they can help introduce
you to the person themselves.

5. It could help you become an artist

To become an artist you just need to find your own way of expressing your vision through
creating something.

Creativity is a form of intelligence and humans have evolved through it.

It is a gift that allows humans to develop the skills to deal with the complexities of the world. By
following your creativity, you can become more aware and aware is an empowering quality.

6. Art can give us a reason to live

The patterns of sound and colors on a canvas are completely unrelated to the forces of the air.
Yet a beautiful painting can make us feel a certain way.

It can reach us at our most deep and subtle levels. Different paintings can awaken the senses in
all of us. Some music can make us feel energized or calm. Others can help us understand society
and express our culture.

It can connect us with each other and also with the infinite. Art is worldwide, international,
intergenerational.

Art is a way of expressing beauty through a completely different means of being. It is one of the
most beautiful and effective forms of communication.

7. Art can be used as a metaphor for communication

Art offers a unique way to deal with the most powerful issues of the human experience. It is not
always easy to articulate why something is a metaphor, but it is important to ask yourself what
the purpose of the art is.

If it helps you to solve a problem, then it is a good example of how art can be used to problem-
solve. Art offers us ways to deal with things that are difficult and challenging.

Since art is a form of expression, it is easy to create something out of emotion. Some of the most
famous works of art were prompted by emotion.

8. A wide knowledge of art gives you access to history

By studying art all over the world you can get a glimpse into the historic human condition. Art
dates back to the earliest time of human existence. It is truly amazing to analyze early art.

History is usually told as a bunch of facts, and it can be difficult to connect with these stories.
Art gives us a real chance to connect with someone from another time period, another era,
another culture.

You can even study art history specifically.

9. Art an help you get more out of yourself

Trying a new activity has a similar effect on your mind and body. Not only are you creating new
neural pathways to do the activity, you are enriching your mind's network.

Studying art or participating in art is a tool to facilitate change in the way you view the world
and who you are.

It is important to acknowledge that art has a powerful impact on your life, but not to believe that
it is the only way to get something from it.

Let go of art and you will notice that you will also let go of a lot of painful feelings and struggles
you have been dealing with for a while.

10. Art is more than a means of communication

Art is a beautiful form of communication that reveals our perception of the world. It shows us
how different we all are and it is important to understand the variety of ways that different
people perceive and think about the world.

At times it is also good to question how our own interpretation of the world affects our beliefs
and actions. Art offers a way to expand our ideas and perceptions.

Use art to improve your own life. Visualize yourself on a mountain top reaching for a sparkling
rainbow.
Draw yourself in a lush green field surrounded by grasses. Consider the beautifully organic
shapes in the watercolor painting that you have in your home.

Reflect on the rhythmic patterns of the music that you have heard. Now let go and realize that all
of the experiences you have to use to create art!

The Process of Art Appreciation

1. Description – In this step, objective observations about what is seen is noted. Describe
only the facts such as the name of the artist, his or her nationality, and information about
him/her; the name of the artwork or the year/s it was made. Describe as well the details
that is seen in the art work such as the line shape, form, space, texture, color and value.

2. Analysis – In this step, a consideration for the most significant art principles used in the
artwork should be noted. Principles like, Balance, Contrast, Emphasis, Harmony, Variety,
Unity, Gradation, Movement, Rhythm, Proportion, Depth, and Composition.

3. Interpretation – Based on the artwork, what have you learned so far? What do you think
was the artist trying to say? Why did the artist create this artwork? What do you think
does this mean? What feelings do you have when looking at the artwork? Do you think
there are things in the artwork that represent other symbols?

4. Judgment – Do you like the artwork? Is it a good artwork? Is it important? Then justify
your opinion, explain why you feel the way you feel about the artwork. Always present
criteria in judging/ appreciating the artwork.

The Different Theories of Aesthetics

1. Imitationalism – The aesthetic which applies to artwork that look very realistic. These
artworks contain recognizable, realistic looking objects and scenes that closely imitate
what we see in the real world.

Imitationalism is the aesthetic theory that focuses on realistic representation. It emphasizes the accurate
depiction of objects and subjects in art, aiming to imitate or replicate reality as closely as possible. This
theory values the skill and technical ability of the artist in creating lifelike images and often prioritizes the
faithful portrayal of details and proportions. Imitationalism aims to create art that is easily recognizable
and relatable to the viewer, providing a sense of familiarity and connection to the real world.

2. Formalism – The aesthetic theory which focuses on the effective arrangements of lines,
colors, shapes, and other elements of art. They are not intended to look realistic. A formalist
artwork is considered to be successful if the artist has created a visually interesting design.
3. Emotionalism – The aesthetic theory which stresses the expressive qualities in an artwork.
The primary purpose of an emotionalist artwork is to vividly communicate moods, feelings an
ideas to the viewer. The main focus is to get the viewer’s attention in a dramatic way to impact
the viewer’s emotions.

Emotionalism is an aesthetic theory that requires an artwork to evoke a response of feelings,

moods, or emotions in the viewer. This theory emphasizes the importance of the emotional
impact that art can have on individuals. It suggests that art should be able to elicit an emotional
response and create a deep connection between the viewer and the artwork. Emotionalism
focuses on the subjective experience of the viewer and the power of art to evoke and
communicate emotions.

Interpretation
When you tell the mood or feeling of the work, you are completing the step of interpreting the
art. Interpretation involves understanding and explaining the meaning or message conveyed by
the artwork. By identifying the mood or feeling, you are analyzing the emotions evoked by the
piece and providing an interpretation of the artist's intention.

Analyse

When you determine how the artist has used the elements of art and principles of design to create
the work, you are completing the step of analysis. Analysis involves breaking down the artwork
and examining its components, such as color, form, texture, and composition, to understand how
they contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the piece. By analyzing the artistic choices
made by the artist, you gain a deeper understanding of their intentions and the techniques used in
the artwork.

Judge

In the context of criticising art, the step of determining the work's merit refers to judging it. Judging
involves evaluating the success or effectiveness of the piece in society, considering factors such as its
impact, relevance, and quality. This step allows the critic to form an overall opinion about the artwork
and its value within the artistic and cultural context.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics refers to the philosophy or study of the nature and value of art. It explores concepts
such as beauty, taste, and the principles that guide artistic creation and appreciation. Aesthetics
delves into the understanding of what makes art meaningful and how it affects our emotions and
perceptions. It also examines the various theories and perspectives that contribute to our
understanding of art and its significance in society.
Criteria

Standards of judgement are commonly referred to as criteria. Criteria are used to evaluate or assess
something based on a set of standards or principles. They provide a basis for making judgments or
decisions. In this context, the word "criteria" best fits the description of standards of judgement.

Realism
An art style where the artist tries to paint a picture exactly how it looks in real life, with as many
details as possible.

Expressionism
A style of art where the artist attempts to convey as much of their emotion into the artwork as
possible, often using distortion and emphasis

Composition
The way artwork is arranged in accordingly.

criticism of art important?

Art criticism is important because it allows people to better understand and to appreciate art. Art
criticism responds to artworks in an informed way, and contributes to the ongoing discourse
about the nature and meaning of art.

What are the 4 parts of critique in art?

The four parts of critique in art are describing, analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating. The four
parts rely on each other, and a useful critique integrates the four parts together.

How do you write an art critique?

The best way to write an art critique is to follow the four steps of art criticism.

 First state the obvious and describe what can be objectively perceived (describe).
 Second, explain how the parts of the artwork work together (analyze).
 Third, state a meaning for the artwork (interpret).
 And lastly, judge the effectiveness of the artwork (evaluation).
What is Art Criticism?
Art criticism is the way of looking at, talking and thinking about works of art to understand their
aesthetic qualities. All works of art give certain information.

 Art criticism looks for this information and see how it is related to the aesthetic qualities
of the work.
 Art criticism also looks for what is in art that gives rise to our feelings and our total sense
of approval.
 It helps us both to talk about works of art and to get delight and pleasure from them.

For instance when we see, read or hear a work of art we often wish to share our feelings with
other people, so we talk about with them. Art criticism is sharing with other people our
discoveries about a work of art and its relation to life. For example if a work of example, if a
work of art produce by any of you from paintings , textile designer , sculpture, ceramic ware
is sold at a higher price, we will begin to talk about the work. We will desire to see at least a
photograph of the work to judge it qualities. We would be discussing why the work costs so
much and who buys it. We would talk about who gets all that money and how much tax he
will pay to the government.

Art criticism is a way of passing judgement on a work of art, for example, ‘This work is
poorer or better than one made last year’, or Alhassan painting is excellent’, Judging a work
of art is the most important aspect of art criticism and it what makes criticism different from
art appreciation. In art appreciation we do not judge the merit of wort. Judging a work of art
is especially important when we want to collect them for ourselves or for others. Art sellers
(dealers) and museum and gallery keepers must have good critical judgement of work of art.
That is , the must be able to tell good works from bad ones. For instance, the keeper of the
national museum must be able to judge the quality of works so that he can buy good ones for
the national collection. Judgement in criticism is also important for the artist. it helps him to
set a high standard for his work. When an artist compares his works with good works of old
and great artist (old work helps him to be aware of the attitudes of his society.

We need certain knowledge to criticize a work of art. This is acquired in the following
manner.

 We have to see, hear or read other works of art as well as the one we want to criticize
and judge. For example, we have to see many paintings, textiles works to enable us to
criticize and judge a particular one.
 We have to know or understand the style (manner and form of presentation) and the
function of art form.
 We have to know the society and culture in which the artist works or worked (i.e. the
background of the artist whose work we are to criticize and judge).
 We have to know the technique of the artist (i.e. the type of material and tools used ;
and manner in which he handles the material).
  We have to know if the work is successful or unsuccessful in terms of the use of
material, techniques employed by the artist, design or composition, and the meaning
of the work.

The procedure for art criticism is similar to that of art appreciation. If we pass judgement
at the end of appreciation, then becomes criticism.

For most people, an art criticism definition identifies the work of art critics, who critique works
of art in exhibition reviews. A common assumption is that all criticism is bad, due to the negative
connotation of the word ''criticism.'' While art criticism does involve evaluation (judgment of a
work as more or less effective), art criticism aims to gather information about an artwork, to
analyze it, and to interpret its meaning. The validity of an evaluation depends on a solid
interpretation of the artwork based on facts and evidence, and therefore, art criticism is not based
on opinion. Art criticism is informed discussion aimed at improving understanding and
appreciation of art. Art criticism can be either written or spoken.

Every culture produces artworks in forms such as imagery, objects, music, writing, drama, and
dance. As art forms evolve over time, cultures identify certain qualities that contribute to the
beauty, expression, effectiveness, or usefulness of art. Critics understand and evaluate artworks
based on such qualities.

Art Criticism Steps

Anyone who is interested in understanding art can take on the role of a critic, and learn how to
critique art by following the 4 steps of art criticism. Following these four simple steps is how to
write an art critique.

The 4 steps of art criticism are:

 Describing
 Analyzing
 Interpreting
 Evaluating

A piece of art criticism may emphasize one of these steps more than the others, but good art
criticism will integrate all of them together.

 Description (step 1), requires the critic to observe the artwork and notice the obvious
features such as the subject.
 For analysis (step 2), the critic explains how the parts or elements of the artwork work
together.
 Interpreting an artwork (step 3), is to make a statement about what the artwork means,
expresses, or signifies.
  Evaluating an artwork (step 4), is explaining how well the artwork meets criteria
informed by the art movement or style of the artwork.
Criteria may address such values as beauty, the expression of emotion, the communication of an
idea, or the capacity of the artwork to fulfill a specific function

The Theories of Judging Art

Theories of Judging Art

People who study or judge art sometimes use certain theories that say how a work should be
considered. Critics regularly use three of these theories:

1. Imitationalism
2. Formalism
3. Emotionalism

Some people think art should imitate what we see in the real world. Using this theory to judge art
is called Imitationalism.

Others feel that the most important part of a work is the use of the principles of design and the
elements of art. According to this theory, called Formalism, the work is successful if the textures,
colors, lines, and other elements and principles are organized properly.

Still others believe that art must speak to the viewer through her or his emotions. This theory
says that the most important part of the work is the mood the artist communicates. This last
theory is called Emotionalism.

You can judge art using one theory, or more than one, depending upon the type of art and your
own purposes. If you stick to one theory, however you may miss some exciting discoveries in a
work. Perhaps the best method is to use all three. Then you will be able to discover as much as
possible about a particular piece of art.

IMPORTANCE OF ART APPRECIATION

1. Art appreciation is the knowledge and understanding of the universal and timeless
qualities that identify all great art.

2. Art appreciation involves having an understanding of all the qualities that comprise a
great work of art.
3. Art appreciation involves learning about certain time periods, movements, styles and
techniques so that a person has a better understanding of the basis for the art as well as of
the art itself.
 BODY ART

The term "Body art" describes a type of contemporary art, in which the artist's own body
becomes the "canvas" or "artwork". Although closely related to conceptual art and performance
art, Body art embraces a wide range of disciplines, including: Body-Painting; Tattoo art; Face-
Painting; Nail art; Piercings; Make-up; Mime and Living Statues; and Photography.
Sometimes it is made in private and then displayed in photos or video recordings; sometimes it is
created 'live' in front of an audience.

Body art is a way to express yourself and be creative by changing, decorating, or modifying your
body. It can be simple and temporary, like face painting and makeup, or more lasting, like
tattoos and piercings

CHARACTERISTICS OF BODY ART

1. Body art can even enhance different kinds of performances.

2. Body art showcases the artistic potential and cultural significance of the human
body.
3. Body art is the way for people to show who they are, their culture, and their
individuality.
4. Body art is a rich tapestry of techniques everyone should explore and appreciate.
5. Body art also is the way to respect and understand different cultures. .
6. Body art is a rich tapestry of techniques everyone should explore and appreciate

Origins and History

Body art - at least in the form of body painting - dates back to the era of prehistoric art and the
use of colour pigments, like red ochre, for cultural purposes. Face painting and tattooing, also
derive from ancient art as practised around the world, from North America to New Zealand,
while mime dates back to dramatic gestural art forms of Ancient Greece. The most modern forms
include body statues (a form of street art), nail art, and performance body art. The latter first
emerged during the mid-60s and, after something of a decline, reappeared in the 1990s.

Body Art in Performance

Performance art is where the artist or performers do their thing in front of an audience. It
includes music, dance, theater, poetry, and visual arts. Body art is an important part of
performance art because it helps set the mood, create characters, or send a message to the
audience. Here are some examples of body art in performance:
  Mime and Living Statues: Mime is a theater where actors use their body movements
and facial expressions to tell a story without words. Living statues are performers who
dress up like statues and pose in public places. Both use body art to make it seem like
they're something or someone else.
 Action Painting: Action painting is a style of painting where the artist physically applies
paint to a surface, often spontaneously and expressively. Sometimes, artists do it live in
front of an audience, using their body as a tool or canvas. They might drip, splash, or
throw paint on a big canvas or themselves, making a cool and colorful scene.
 Installation Body Painting: Installation body painting is when body painting and
installation art come together. Installation art takes up a whole 3D space or is made
specifically for a certain place. With installation body painting, the performers get
painted and put in a certain setting, creating a powerful visual effect.

Body Painting as Art

Body painting is a popular and versatile form of body art. It involves applying paint or other
substances to the skin or hair of a person or an animal to create different effects and designs.
People use body painting for artistic expression, entertainment, fashion, advertising, activism,
and cultural rituals. There are different types of body painting:

 Illusion Body Painting: This type of body painting creates optical illusions on the skin,
making it appear transparent, textured, distorted, or animated. It requires skill, creativity
from the artist, and careful lighting and positioning.
 Fine Art Body Painting: Fine art body painting aims to create artistic works on the
human body that resemble paintings on canvas. Artists draw inspiration from art styles
like impressionism, surrealism, and abstract expressionism.
 Camouflage Body Painting: Camouflage body painting blends the human body with its
surroundings, making it hard to distinguish from the background. It can be used for fun,
entertainment, or even survival purposes.
 Body Painting with Illustration Elements: This body painting incorporates elements
from illustration art, like cartoons, comics, anime, or manga. It creates playful and
whimsical designs that reflect the personality or interests of the model.
  Paintloon Body Painting: Paintloon body painting uses balloons filled with paint to
create colorful splashes and patterns on the skin. Artists can either pop the balloons on

the skin or use them as brushes or stamps.

 UV Painting: UV painting uses paints that glow under ultraviolet (UV) light. It creates
striking and psychedelic effects on the skin that are invisible under normal light.

Waterproof Painting: Waterproof painting uses paints that are resistant to water. It can be used
for underwater photography or performance

Face-Painting and Makeup

Face painting and makeup are types of body art that use colors or substances to create different
effects on the face or body. They can be used for artistic expression, entertainment, celebration,
disguise, or transformation. There are two main forms of face painting and makeup:

 Makeup (Including Aqua Makeup): Makeup is a type of body art where cosmetics or
other products are applied to enhance or change the appearance of the face or body. It can
be used for everyday purposes or special occasions. Makeup can create artistic or
dramatic effects on the skin, like contouring, highlighting, or shading. Aqua makeup is a
water-based makeup that is easily applied and removed with water. It's often used for
face painting or body painting.
 Face-Painting: Face-painting involves painting the face with different colors and
designs. It's done for fun, entertainment, or celebration purposes. Face painting can also
create characters or creatures on the face, such as animals, clowns, or superheroes.

Other Forms of Body Art

Many other forms of body art are not covered in this blog post but are equally fascinating and
diverse. Some examples are:
  Body Piercings: Body piercings are tattoos in which a part of the body is pierced or cut,
and jewelry or an object is inserted. Body piercings can be done on various body parts
like noses, lips, tongues, eyebrows, nipples, navels, genitals, etc. They can have different
meanings and purposes, such as personal expression, fashion, or cultural or religious
practices.
 Beading: Beads are used under the skin to create bumps or patterns in beading. It can be
done on different body parts like arms, legs, chest, back, or genitals. Beading can have
various purposes and meanings, including personal expression, decoration, or sexual
enhancement.
 Scarification: It refers to body art in which scars are created on the skin by cutting,
burning, branding, or scratching it. It can make different shapes, patterns, or symbols on
the skin. Scarification has a variety of meanings and purposes, including personal
expression, identification, symbolism, or cultural or religious practices.
 Branding: In this type of body art, burns are made on the skin by applying heated metal
objects. Various shapes, patterns, and symbols can be created on the skin. Branding has
various meanings and purposes, including expressing personal identity, identifying
oneself, or symbolizing cultural or religious values.
 Character or Creature Body Art: Character or creature body art transforms a person or
an animal's appearance into a fictional or mythical character or creature. It can include
techniques and materials like makeup, prosthetics, costumes, body painting, etc. This
type of body art is used for fun, entertainment, or artistic purposes.
 Fashion Body Art: Fashion body art uses the human body as a medium for fashion
design and expression. It involves techniques and materials like clothing, accessories,
jewelry, body painting, etc. Fashion body art can be used for personal expression, fashion
shows, or photo shoots.
 Special Effects Body Art: Body art creates realistic or fantastical effects on the human
body using such materials as makeup, prosthetics, latex, silicone, blood, etc. It is used in
movies, television, theater, or entertainment purposes.

Body Art and Self-Expression

 Body art goes beyond just decorating or modifying the human body. It's a way of
expressing oneself, showing cultural identity, and being creative. Body art can reflect a
person's personality, interests, emotions, values, beliefs, or experiences.
 It can also send a message to others, like speaking up on social or political issues,
promoting awareness, or showing unity. Body art is also about celebrating the diversity
and beauty of the human body in all its different shapes, sizes, colors, and forms.

Tattoo Artistry

Tattooing is one of the oldest and most common forms of body art. It involves putting ink or
pigments into the skin using needles or tools. This creates permanent designs or marks on the
skin. Tattooing can mean different things, like personal expression, decoration, or cultural
practices.
There are different types of tattooing:

 Traditional Tattoos: These tattoos follow styles from different cultures, like Polynesian,
Japanese, and Native American. They have special patterns and meanings that reflect the
culture they come from.
 Cosmetic Tattooing: This type of tattooing enhances or changes the appearance of
features like eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips. It can also cover scars or birthmarks. Cosmetic
tattooing is also called permanent makeup because it lasts a long time.
 Temporary Tattoos: These tattoos are not permanent and fade away over time. They can
be made with henna, stickers, or stencils. People use temporary tattoos for fun and
fashion.