The Four Steps:

1. Describe
2. Analyze
3. Interpret
4. Evaluate/Judgement

Step 1

FIRST- Write down the Title, Author, Date and
Style of the Artwork.

Make a list of all the things they you see in the
work.

Describe the subject matter. (What it is about,
what is happening, if there is no subject describe
the elements)

Do not make any kind of judgment about the work.

It is Important to carefully, non-judgmentally
observe the art.

Step 2

Pay close attention to which art elements the artist
used. Line, Shape, Color, Value, Texture, & Space.
(Form is 3-d and will not apply to painting critiques)

LOOK for ways the elements were used to organize
the composition by noting the principles of art:
rhythm, balance, movement, proportion, variety,
emphasis, and unity.

Step 3

List any feelings or moods you get from the
artwork.

Think creatively and imaginatively at this stage.

Base your interpretation on what you’ve
concluded in the first two steps of the critique
process.

Step 4

Decide whether the work is successful or has
merit.

Support you judgment with answers from the first
three steps.