Art Assessment Inventory

These are some critical questions to ask when confronted by a work of art:

Am I identifying with this work?

How close to reality is it? Is it abstract?

What is it made of? Is the medium part of the message?

How do I feel about the colors? What is their range and quantity?

How bright is it? Is it shiny?

How much contrast is there?

Does shadow play an important part in the total effect?

Am I impressed by the artist’s technique or lack of it?

How does the size of the object affect my judgment of it?

Is there anything special about its shape?

Am I affected by the actual or implied texture?

What kinds of lines are used: simple or complex, straight or curved?

Are there any style references?

Does the work have multiple layers of meaning? Are there any hidden messages?

How are the elements arranged? Is it symmetrical?

Is the work mobile or static?

How is perspective handled?

Is it decorative or functional?

Is it narrative?

Does it seem to overflow its borders?

Does it contain nationalistic or historical elements?

Under what conditions am I viewing this work?

How does it make me feel?

Would I like to posses it? Do I have a place for it?

How much does it cost?

Can I afford it?