Select one work of art from each of the 3 time periods listed. The artworks should each be from a different culture and time period.
Total of 3 works of art. Selected artwork must share a common theme or topic. Time periods:
Time period 1: 500 BCE – 500CE
Time period 2: 500CE – 1800 CE
Time period 3: 1800CE – Present
In a paper, a podcast recording, or a narrated presentation, answer the following prompts about each of the three artworks that you selected.
Identify the theme that each artwork addresses.
e.g., power and authority, religion, spirituality, character, virtues, political, social concerns, a historical event, an individual, etc.
Describe the significance that the theme holds for the artist.
Why did the artist choose to share their perspectives on this theme by making the selected artwork?
Explain the historical context of each artwork.
What important events (social, political, economic, religious, etc.) took place around the time each one was made?
In what ways, if any, is this referenced in the artwork?
Analyze how the works of art are organized in order to visually communicate their theme.
Compare and contrast the formal properties of each artwork and describe how these components help communicate the artist’s message.
e.g., Elements of art, principles of design, scale, value, balance, focal point, and media/materials.
What images, text, signs, symbols, etc., are included in the composition to identify or reference the theme?
What symbolic language connects each work of art across time and place?
Examine how your three selected artists, artworks, and themes are similar across culture and time.
Identify the ways your selected works of art reflect influences from other cultures.
How has analyzing your three selected works of art helped broaden your understanding of how art transcends time and culture?
Justify how learning about the visual arts impacts your perspective on cultural diversity.
In what ways has learning about visual arts from other cultures and times fostered a deeper appreciation for cultures other than your own?
Give an example of how your artwork analysis has changed your current perspective on cultural diversity’s role in society and art.