A Short Guide to Writing about Art by 
Writing about Art by
This straightforward guide prepares students to describe, interpret, and write about works of art in meaningful and lasting terms. Designed as a supplement to Art History survey and period texts, this efficient book features a step-by-step approach to writing--from choosing a work to write about, to essay organization, to research techniques, to footnote form, to preparing the final essay. For beginners as well as more advanced students [Publisher description]
Art history not surprisingly is an interesting intersection of both visual art and cultural history and experience, and often the resources you draw from fit into an intersection of both.
Write down key words, phrases, names, and dates that might relate to your topic.Unknown Artist. Horse and Rider. Earthenware with traces of pigment. 31-1/2 x 29-3/4 x 11-1/2 in. (80.0 x 75.6 x 29.2 cm). Minneapolis Institute of Art. Minneapolis, Minnesota. https://collections.artsmia.org/art/59514/horse-and-rider-china. Accessed 6 Oct. 2023.
Subject encyclopedias can be great tools for getting background information at a broad level in a new focus area. Entries are usually signed by the author (who is often a scholar in the field) and often include a bibliography which can take you to additional, more focused resources.
PRO TIP: Use fewer and broader terms when searching in subject encyclopedias for best results, such as Greek Red Figure.
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A handful of links to local resources and organizations here in the Twin Cities.
