Research Paper assignment
The research paper involves writing about an artwork or building that you see in person. The work must fall into the time frame of Western art encompassed by the course (prehistoric Europe through 14th Century CE), and it must reflect aspects of an artistic period discussed in class.
In the introduction, identify the work by providing the artist’s name (if known), title, date, medium and the collection (museum) in which it’s located.
In the body of the paper, consider how the artwork is representative of artistic trends of its day.
You can break down your discussion into sections dealing with subject matter, and the purpose the work served (for example, who commissioned it or its original setting), and style analysis.
Be sure to link the work to the artistic period, or to other similar objects, providing historic context for the piece.
Things to consider:
Before your museum visit, search online to find the hours and cost of the museum.
Don’t assume the museum is always open. Remember to take your student ID which may get you a discount.
If you’re able to furnish illustrations, do. Ask before you use your camera in a museum. Many museums allow photography as long as there is no flash, but it’s always good to ask.
You may also find a reproduction at the museum, online or in print. Illustrations should be captioned or identified in some manner (such as Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.)
