Investigating other artists' works
It is helpful to see what other artists do to focus our attention on the subject of their painting. The way they arrange it can influence the way we feel about the subject matter and help us understand their idea.
When arranging their artwork, an artist will have used one or more of the principles of art.
Below is a useful series of questions you can ask about any artwork to help you understand it. The example that is used is a typical artwork from northern Europe during the late Renaissance.
- What do I notice first?
- Why do I notice it first?
- Is there anything leading my eye to subject?
- Do I notice anything else?
- What is the artist's idea?
It feels as if the artist wants to impress his audience with the variety of food and his skills in painting the differently textured surfaces. What does this tell you about the artist's idea?
To find out more, read the following fact sheet. It will also tell you why this work is different from many of the Italian Renaissance works and there is an activity to complete.
