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ART CRITICS VOCABULARY

large disturbing communicate

enormous dynamic constructs

gigantic ambiguous emphasizes

ambitious compelling designed

commanding peaceful executedpowerful transformed

mesmerizing glows

images

imagery glamorous

figure tremendous

harshness subtle fluidity

harsh peculiar energy

awkward weak variety

tension fractured clarity

elegant stunning precision

lush treatment

brittle

luminous vividly emphasis

curvilinear concept quality

linear gesture illusion

vivd surfaces

abstractdisguised exploit

undisguised transparency control

transformed opaqueness elaborate

essential quickness convey

delicate flamboyant

tranquil fantastic

visible biomorphic

invisible

distorted

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PHILOSOPHIES OF ART (Extracted from the writings of Mitler, Ragans, and Chapman)

REALISM

Literal qualities: The most important thing about a work of art is the realistic presentation of subject

matter. A work is successful if it looks like and reminds us of what we see in the real world.

EXPRESSIONISM

Expressive qualities: The most important thing about a work of art is the vivid communication of

moods, feelings, and ideas to the viewer. The work is successful if the art speaks to the viewer through

her/his emotions.

FORMALISM

Visual qualities: The most important thing about a work of art is the effective organization of theelements of art (line, shape, form, texture, color, space) through the use of the principles of design

(balance, repetition/movement, unity, emphasis, proportion, contrast). The work is successful if the

elements of art are well organized.

FUNCTIONALISM

Functional qualities: The most important thing about a work of art is its usefulness to our lives and its

power to communicate to many people. When judging functional objects, attention must be given to

both usefulness and beauty. The work is successful if it functions as intended and provides a fresh, new

insight to the design.