When approaching a piece of artwork, ask students first to write down a list of what they see. For representational art, such as a landscape painting, ask students to list natural items such as trees, hills, valleys, rivers and lakes. Then add buildings. Students will see cottages, manor homes, churches and castles. With abstract art, direct students' focus to the artist's choice of color, lines and shapes. Include sculptures, with marble, metal or alternative materials.
Start another list where the students note their feelings as they view a piece of artwork. Does a landscape painting make them feel calm? Ask them to analyze why. Did the artist use calming colors, such as clear greens and blues? Do any figures in the painting appear relaxed? Look at a piece of non-representational art. Ask students if the artist is challenging them with vivid hues of color, or lack of color. Sculpture can evoke strong feelings, such as excitement and movement.
Introduce students to art analysis. Provide information on basic composition. Is the art centered and symmetrical? Or does the artist create an asymmetrical composition? Does the artist use soft colors or vibrant and bold hues? Discuss the trail of art history, with images from prehistoric caves, through Egypt, Greece, Rome and Europe. Include art developments in the Americas, Asia, Africa and other areas. Explain the use of symbols in art, such as lambs signifying innocence and sacrifice. Encourage students to use analysis to support their opinions.
Consider student artwork as a source of discussions. Use finished works or works in progress. Ask students to consider the medium. Is the student-artist using pencil, pen and ink, watercolors, oils or other materials? Take turns interviewing the student-artists to ask why they selected their media. Ask the student-artists about their goals. What feelings or ideas did the artists hope to convey? Brainstorm other interview questions, such as artistic influences. Does the student admire any artists? Can viewers see the influence in the student's art? Encourage students to learn from each other's artwork.