Four steps of art criticism In its most basic form, art criticism has four basic steps: description, analysis, interpretation and judgment. It is not necessary to go through all the steps, and judgment is always optional. Description: This step is simply naming what you see. Name objects, shapes, colors and textures. Concentrate on the facts, what you can actually see, not what you might read into the image. Not everyone will agree on meanings. Analysis: How are the elements put together? What is the first thing you notice? Statements such as "I see a lot of curved lines in this painting, do you?" can be a good lead-in for discussion. If your child spends a lot of time drawing, paying attention to how the artwork is composed can strengthen his or her artwork. Interpretation: What is the artist trying to say? How does it make you feel? The title or any information about the historical context of the artist may give you clues. At this stage it is important to remember that no one has to be right! Judgment: Was the artist successful? Did the artist convey what they intended to? A critique should result in a statement of evaluation, rather than a preference. Not liking a painting because "it has people rather than horses" would be a preference. You don't have to like an artwork for it to be successful. It is fine not to like an artwork; it is even better to be able to articulate why you don't like it.

When parents begin to involve their children in the visual arts they usually provide plenty of art supplies at home, "How to Draw" books and art lessons. They may take their children to visit museums and art festivals.

All of these are essential to a quality art experience, but equally important is the development of their skill of observation.

Observation is the most vital skill in art, whether you are producing art or just enjoying it. It is basic to all forms of art whether drawing and painting, designing buildings, fashion design or advertising. By looking at art, children can recognize the styles of different artist, time periods and cultures. Children can be stimulated to try new approaches to their own artwork.

This process of looking at and talking about art is actually art criticism. The mere mention of "Art Criticism" can conjure up feelings of intimidation and inadequacy. You may have visions of big words, boring lectures or snooty people in stuffy museums pronouncing vindictive judgments. In fact, you and your family are quite capable of enjoying the exercise of art criticism.

Art criticism as a family activity? Relax, it can be fun!

In addition to developing the skill of observation, the process of critique helps develop critical thinking skills. Children learn to use a method of examination and evaluation to come to a conclusion and gain experience defending that conclusion. Looking at art can be a nice way to spend time with your child and may even give some insight to how they view the world.

To critique simply means to evaluate or analyze with knowledge; to consider the merits and demerits of an artwork. Since critique is an evaluation based on knowledge, the process would obviously become more complex with the amount of knowledge you have about art.

All of us capable of vision have some knowledge about the elements of art: line, shape, color, three-dimensional forms, space, value (light and dark), and texture. You can start with what we know and be conscious of the attention span of your children.

Looking at art is primarily a visual experience. Young children will probably stay mostly in the description phase, but may talk about feelings or meaning. As children progress, they become more interested in the analyzing, interpreting and making judgments based on their knowledge. As children reach middle school age, they may recognize the culture and time periods of artwork. They may begin to have favorite artists and styles. By high school, students are capable of a thorough and knowledgeable criticism.

Books are a great way to get started looking at art with your children. For young children, try "A Child's Book of Art," and "I Spy," by Lucy Micklethwait. Look for books about art rather than the "how to" books. Select books with good reproductions and small, digestible amounts of content. If you are going to buy books, examine the book at local bookstores rather than buying sight unseen. It's all about observation!


Area Art Classes:

The Art School
Classes at The Art School, 320 E. Montgomery Crossroad, Suite 6, are held weekly and students may enroll at any time as long as space is available. To register, or for more information, call (912) 691-1181.

City of Savannah Dept. of Leisure Services
Offers a variety of sessions aimed at children ages 4-14 that continue through Aug. 1. Students enrolled in Cultural Affairs Art Camp will study the fundamentals of two- and three-dimensional design while having fun. Each will participate in classes exploring ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, creative writing and dramatics. For more information or to register call (912) 651-4248.

Tiffany Drabek
The Tiffany Drabek Studio offers classes in sculpture and pottery for people of all ages. Nestled in the Ardsley Park neighborhood, the classes and workshops provide group and individual instruction in sculpture, hand building and pottery. Call (912) 692-0659.

Krista Grecco
Individualized classes in pottery for teens and adults, all skill levels. E-mail for rates and workshop dates, krista_grecco@yahoo.com


Lind Hollingsworth owes The Art School on Montgomery Crossroad, where she teaches art to children of all ages.