How to Look at Art
Did you know that on average, a person spends only 4 seconds looking at each individual artwork displayed in a museum? How you look at art matters - take the time to explore an artwork, how it makes you feel, and what it expresses.
One good way to study art is to look at it and ask some "W" questions - like “Who, what, where, when, and why.” These questions will help you learn more about the artwork, the artist, and your own appreciation of art.
Who made this object? Is the artwork made by a single person, or is it a collaborative piece? If you know any background information about the artist, you may be able to see how their personal experiences have informed the artistic process. Always read the artist biographies!
What is the object? Note the physical qualities of the artwork, like material and size. Is it a small piece that invites close and intimate viewing, or do you feel the need to step back and view it from a distance to see it properly?
Why? This is a big question - why was the artwork made, and what is it intended to communicate? The answers to these questions are sometimes arbitrary, or highly unique from one person to another. Art is subjective, and we all find meaning in different things. Art can be a simple appreciation of the subject, though it can also be intended to communicate a message, or incite thoughtfulness.
Come try out these looking skills for yourself at the Montgomery Museum's Riotous Color exhibit by Andrea Brunais! She has many, many beautiful artworks for you to examine.
