How to Critique an Art Exhibition

Formal Analysis

• 1). Take an objective inventory of the collection. Observe individual pieces in detail and make neutral statements. Take detailed notes about features of the subject: flowers, people, animals, anything that stands out. You should note abstract elements like patterns and use of colors and shapes. Notice how the artist applies certain colors to objects and the texture or composition of the medium.
  
  
• 2). Interpret the artwork based on your personal response. Does the work evoke emotion or feelings? Make statements about the possible intention of the artist. Does the collection have meaning? Support your claims with the evidence you took note of in observations. This point of the evaluation is creative and complex. A review doesn't decide the exhibition a success or failure, rather assesses the artwork's ideology.
  
  
• 3). The final critique of the exhibition incorporates your interpretation of the collection as well as your understanding of the artist's intentions. You should enter the work into conversation with theory, history and culture. Based on research and evidence, decide if the collection represents the artist's intent. Was your reaction that of which you believe the artist aspired?