How can I learn about an artist, a work of art or an art movement?

Sorting through information requires a skill that you can learn. Work from a general resource area to a specific one. Start with a Dictionary of Art. Use the index and look for names, places, artwork titles, mediums, and art movements. Research the general area and then look for specific sources that you are interested in. You should check the bibliography section of each article and look at these specific sources. Researching in this way will help you to manage your information. When you have narrowed your research to a specific area of interest, you can focus on this area successfully.

How can similarities and differences be explained using the elements and principles of art?

These are the elements of art:

• Space
• Line
• Value
• Shape
• Texture
• Color

These are the principles of art:

• Rhythm
• Unity
• Transitions
• Balance
• Emphasis
• Contrast

Artists manipulate the elements and principles of art in their artwork. Similarities and differences can exist between artworks when they are compared to each other. For example, the shapes in both pieces of art may be the same type of a shape, the colors may be of the same value or hue, the lines may be in the same direction and thickness. See what you can find by comparing your chosen art pieces, and record them into your research notebook.

Choose an example of a Cubist painting and an example of an African artwork, check for copyrights and obtain a copy.

WARNING: Do not violate copyright laws to complete this Web Quest.

Some websites and books do not allow any copying of their images without permission. In order for you to obtain a copy of an image, check with the web site or book about the copyrights on the image. If required, you should call or e-mail the source and ask for permission to use the image in your notebook and Power Point presentation.