Select a work of art from any of the chapters in our textbook, and write a response that analyzes the art through the lens of a descriptive critic, an interpretive critic, and an evaluative critic. What different things would these critics have to say? Use the following guidelines:
• Descriptive Critic: Address at least 3 different elements of art and/or principles of design.
• Interpretive Critic: This will require research so that you can understand the subject, meaning, and intent of the work.
• Evaluative Critic: Use the standards of perfection, insight, and inexhaustibility (as described in the text).
Sample Solution
I have selected 'The Garden of Earthly Delights' (Hieronymus Bosch, c. 1500-1510) from Chapter 6 - The Renaissance and Baroque to analyze through the lens of a descriptive critic, an interpretive critic, and an evaluative critic.
A descriptive critic would focus on the physical characteristics of the painting by outlining its composition and elements such as color, line and space. For example, they may say that The Garden of Earthly Delights is triptych oil painting with three panels showing different scenes in each one; panel 1 depicting God creating Adam & Eve in a garden setting filled with colorful animals on a green background; Panel 2 showing a large group of nude figures in activities surrounded by creatures both real & imaginary created in bold colors set against vibrant blue sky; Panel 3 which is dark & creepy with writhing figures amidst fires & torture implements.