Lesson 6.3: Using Evidence, Theory and Sources

Introduction

In the world of contemporary art, the importance of articulating one’s thoughts and critiques in writing cannot be overstated. In this lesson, we focus on how to use visual evidence and credible sources effectively in your academic writing. By the end of this lesson, students will be equipped with essential skills to support their arguments with well-founded evidence, utilize theories and concepts as analytical tools, and evaluate the relevance and credibility of different sources.

Learning Objectives

1. Support claims with visual evidence and credible sources.
2. Use theorists and concepts as analytical tools, rather than decorative elements.
3. Quote, paraphrase, and discuss sources fairly and accurately.
4. Judge the quality and relevance of sources in the context of contemporary art.
5. Support an argument with appropriate evidence and theory.

Understanding Evidence in Art Criticism

To critically engage with art, one must understand what constitutes evidence in this particular field.

Visual Evidence

Visual evidence refers to the artworks and images you analyze in your writing. This can include:

• Paintings, sculptures, installations, or any visual artwork.
• Photographs or video stills that capture art in a specific context.
• Sketches or preparatory works that provide insight into the thought process of the artist.

For example, if you are analyzing Vincent van Gogh’s painting "Starry Night," you should not only describe the colors, forms, and composition but also discuss how these visual elements relate to the emotional state of the artist and the time period he lived in. Supporting your claims with detailed visual evidence strengthens your argument significantly.

Worked Example

Consider an assertion: "Van Gogh’s use of swirling forms in 'Starry Night' illustrates his emotional turmoil."

1. Identify Visual Evidence: Discuss specific swirling forms in the sky of the painting.
2. Analyze It: Explain how these forms might represent Van Gogh's mental state.
3. Connect to Context: Relate this to Van Gogh’s struggles with mental health and the influence of Post-Impressionism.

This structured approach to visual evidence leads to richer and more persuasive academic writing.

Credible Sources

Credible sources form the backbone of any academic argument. These sources can include:

• Peer-reviewed academic journals.
• Books by established art historians or critics.
• Reputable exhibition catalogs or museum publications.
• Interviews or writings by artists themselves.

Evaluating Sources

To determine the credibility of a source, students can ask the following questions:

• Is the author a recognized expert in the field of art history or contemporary art?
• Was the source published by a trustworthy publisher?
• Does the source include references to other credible works?

For example, using a peer-reviewed journal article discussing recent trends in contemporary art will typically provide more reliable information than a random blog post.

Using Theorists and Concepts

Art theory can often seem complex, but when used correctly, it can enhance your arguments.

Art Theorists as Tools

When analyzing artwork, you should use theorists not simply as decorative elements but as frameworks for your argument. For instance:

• Marxist Theory: To discuss social class in artworks.
• Feminist Theory: To analyze gender representation in contemporary art.
• Postcolonial Theory: To critique aspects of cultural representation.

Worked Example

Suppose you wish to analyze a work that critiques consumerism. You could incorporate concepts from Marxist theory:

1. Introduce the Theory: Begin with a brief explanation of Marxist views on capitalism.
2. Describe the Artwork: Identify specific elements of the work that illustrate consumerist critiques.
3. Connect Theory and Evidence: Explain how these elements relate back to the Marxist critique of capitalism.

This method of combining theory with visual evidence will substantiate your argument and demonstrate your understanding of the complexities involved in contemporary art discussion.

Academic Writing Techniques

To communicate your ideas effectively, students must develop the ability to quote, paraphrase, and analyze sources.

Quoting and Paraphrasing

Quoting involves taking a direct excerpt from a source while paraphrasing means expressing the same idea in your own words. Both methods are essential for academic writing:

• Quoting: Use quotes when the original wording is particularly impactful or when the author's authority strengthens your point.
• Paraphrasing: Use it to simplify or clarify complex ideas. Ensure you still attribute the original source.

Example of Quoting and Paraphrasing

• Original Quote: "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see" - Edgar Degas.
• Paraphrase: According to Edgar Degas, the essence of art lies in its ability to influence perception in others.

Fair Discussion of Sources

When discussing a source, critically engage with it rather than merely summarizing it.

• Acknowledgement: Recognizing the strengths of the source.
• Critique: Highlighting weaknesses or alternative viewpoints.

Judging Source Quality and Relevance

Understanding the context behind contemporary art can guide you in selecting and evaluating resources effectively.

Criteria for Quality

• Authority: Trustworthy sources typically have expert authors.
• Currency: Ensure your information is up-to-date, especially considering that contemporary art evolves constantly.
• Relevance: Does the source contribute directly to your argument or understanding of the artwork?

Conclusion

In this lesson, students has learned to integrate evidence, theory, and credible sources into their writing about contemporary art. By supporting arguments with visual analyses and well-chosen academic resources, students will improve their essays significantly. The techniques of quoting, paraphrasing, and critiquing sources will also enhance the clarity and depth of their written work.

Study Notes

• Visual evidence is essential in supporting arguments in art criticism.
• Use credible sources such as academic journals and books from established authors.
• Theorists and concepts should be employed as analytical tools in your arguments.
• Understand how to quote and paraphrase effectively to discuss sources.
• Judging the quality and relevance of sources is crucial in contemporary art analysis.