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Reading an artwork
Click on this links below to view a video showing examples of how people engage with art that they have seen
in Toi Te Papa. (requires Windows Media Player)
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When you view an artwork for the first time, it can be helpful to start by trying to describe the artwork. Ask yourself some of the following questions - they might help to give the artwork a context.
- What is the work called?
- Who is the artist and when was it made?
- What kind of artwork is it?
- What can you see?
- What was happening in the world around the time that the artwork was made?
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Next look to see how the artwork has been put together - key words for this include composition, colour, proportion, texture, pattern, contrast, depth. |
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Once you have checked out when and how the artwork was made, try thinking about why the artwork was made.
- Is the artist trying to communicate to the viewer?
- What are they trying to say through the work?
- How does it make you feel?
Often information on the artwork label can help with these questions. |
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Then you could consider your personal response further.
- Do you like the artwork?
- Do you think it is good?
- Is it an important artwork?
- Should it be on display in the Museum?
- Would you have the artwork in your own home?
- If you could give the artwork to someone who would it be?
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Toi Te Papa offers a wide range of artwork to engage with. Visiting with friends or family can often add
to your experience - share favourites, discuss your different viewpoints.
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