Park University Evaluation Interpretation Case Study

Introduction

In this evaluation, we are starting to think about the context of the work, such as where you see it, when it was made, who it was made by and for what purpose, and the way the media it is made of have been used. We also think about the subject matter (the things portrayed in the work), if there is any, as well as how it has been portrayed. Why depict this, at this time, in this particular way? Why not something else?

Unit Learning Outcomes

• Define the creative process and describe the roles that artists most often assume when they engage in that process. (CLO 4)
• Describe how the way a medium is used affects interpretation (CLO 1,3,6)
• Describe how formal elements can connect to meanings (CLO 1,3)
• Describe how historical context can affect meaning (CLO 2,3,4)
• Describe how visual signs of national, class and racial identity manifest themselves in art. (CLO 2, 3, 4)

Directions

1. Take a look at the image of the painting Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps by Kehinde Wiley (2005) (Links to an external site.).
2. Provide a short answer (150 to 300 words) to each of the questions about the work posed below.
3. Submit the written response as a Word or PDF document named: Assignment5.lastname.doc.

1. Which of the 4 roles of the artist mentioned in chapter 1 do you think this artist fits into the best? Why?
2. What has the most emphasis in the work, or what is its focal point? What does that tell you about the work?
3. What associations (thoughts, feelings) does this work bring up for you? Tell us what element, principle of design or subject matter helps make each association.
4. How might your reaction to this work be different if the paint was used in a rougher way, like van Gogh, where all the brushstrokes were clear and visible?
5. How does the artist’s identity affect how you read the work?
6. How does the relationship between this painting and the historical painting it imitates affect how you see the work?

Due Date

• Submit by 11:59p.m., Sunday, CT.

Rubric

Unit 5: Evaluation – Interpretation

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