1) DESCRIPTION: Write a topic sentence stating the title of the artwork. Then tell me what you see. If there are human figures what are they doing? How are they posed? What are they wearing? What are the expressions on their faces? Tell me about the non-human figures. Include relative sizes, positions and colors used as you describe each figure.
2) MEDIUM: What is the substance the artist uses to make the work of art? Where does it come from? What properties does it have that make it a good medium for art? Why does an artist use this medium? What advantages and disadvantages does it have?
3) THE ARTIST’S PROCESS: Tell me what the artist does to turn medium into the artwork. What tools does he use? What techniques does he use? What are the steps?
4) THE SUBJECT: What is featured on the object, or what does the object represent? Is there a particular myth or story? If so, tell me a version of the myth. If there is an original source for the myth or story, you must research it and include quotes from related literature. If you have chosen a portrait, include information about the person.
5) THE ARTIST: Tell me who created this work of art. What was the name of the artist? In which culture was the artist living? What were the people like? Where did they live and how did they live? What impact did the artist have on his times? If you select a work and the artist is unknown, research the culture in which the artwork was made.
6) THEME: Start this section by writing “The theme of this artwork is ________.” Find one word that sums up the main idea you have when looking at the artwork. Tell me what you see on the artwork that brings the theme to mind. Tell me why the theme is important to human life. Explain how the theme is present in your own life.