Feldman’s Method of Art Criticism
Description – What is seen?
(only facts , not opinions)
- Do not use terms that denote value
judgments (such a beautiful, funny
looking, harmonious, etc.)
- Instead, focus on the factual things,
such as smooth, round, a shape, etc.
- This is important so that you don’t
jump to conclusions before going
through all steps.
- What do you see in the artwork?
Where are these things located within
the composition? (foreground,
middleground, background) (left, right,
center) (above, below, overlapping)
Interpretation – What is the content or
meaning?
(what do you feel is the meaning of the
artwork?)
- Based on your response for step 1 –
Description – and step 2 – Analysis –
what do you think the meaning of the
artwork is? This is your opinion!
- Your response should be based on
ideas, sensations, and/or feelings
evoked from the artwork.
- if you have background information on
the artwork this can aid in your
interpretation.
o As new facts about the artwork
are discovered your
interpretation may change
Analysis – What relationships exist with
what is seen? (use Elements of Art +
Principles of Design to make connections
within the art composition)
- Elements: Line, Shape, Colour,
Texture, Space, Form, Value
- Principles: Movement, Pattern,
Rhythm, Emphasis, Contrast,
Balance, Unity
- How are the above terms seen in the
artwork?
- What relationships exist among the
terms above
o Relationships based on sizes,
shapes, textures, balance, etc.
Judgement – What is your interpretation
of the work?
(do you like it? why or why not?)
- Often this is expressed about an
artwork before it has really been
examined.
- Judgment in that case is neither
informed nor critical, but simply an
opinion.
o Do you like it? Yes or no.
Why or why not?
o Support your opinion