With reference to the elements of art (line, shape, volume, space, value, color and texture), write a Formalist description of one of the works of art from the Art resources links or a source of your own choice. Referring to a chosen image, write a short descriptive sentence for each of the elements.

Examples: “The work uses a majority of organic shapes” and “It uses the complimentary colors yellow and violet for contrast”. You could use a 1-5 scale to rate the importance of a particular element for the work of art you chose. If you do not see an element represented in your chosen work of art, say “none present”. Remember to be objective in your description and do not refer to the subject matter, your perceived meaning of the work, the artist or anything that is not visible in the image itself.

Using the links provided, or any of your choice, objectively describe two compositions and your subjective reaction to each of them. Here are two possible compositions you can use for this learning challenge:

• Image 1: John Singleton Copley’s Watson and the Shark
• Image 2: Judy Pfaff’s Untitled.
  • What kind of visual balance is used in each?
  • How does the balance affect the composition?
  • Explain how effective each work is in terms of unity and variety.

Example: “There is variety in the colors used, but they are mostly analogous to each other, and that creates a unity in the overall effect”. Be specific and include any links or images that help support your answers. Your final work on this activity should be at least two pages, double-spaced.

Note: Although the Formalist Method can be used to look at artistic principles too, you are not required to do so for this learning challenge.

In the course topic discussion forum, share the following:

• your formalist description of one work of art
• your objective description of one work of art
• your subjective analysis of one work of art