Analysis of a work of art in grades 5–7 of institutions of general secondary education: Methodological commentary

The article provides methodological reccomendations on the analysis of a sculptural work (circular, monumental sculpture), a graphic work (book graphics), a work of decorative and applied art (vytynanka) and architecture (architecture of three-dimensional structures) in grades 5-7 in fine arts lessons of institutions of secondary education taking into account the age characteristics of adolescents, means of organizing independent research and search, creative activities of students. Attention is given to the common features in the perception, analysis, and interpretation of graphic works, sculpture, decorative and applied arts, and architecture, as well as to the differences in their analysis compared to painting. The authors emphasize that each type of art has its own unique means of expression, and understanding these is key to analyzing and interpreting works of art. Studying the historical, cultural, and social context of a piece helps reveal the artist’s intention. Common aspects in analyzing paintings, graphic works, sculptures, decorative and applied arts, and architectural works include examining composition, form and space, light, technique, emotional impact, cultural context, and symbolism. Significant differences include the analysis of space (paintings and graphic works are two-dimensional and create an illusion of space; sculpture is three-dimensional and exists in real space; architecture is three-dimensional and forms real space for human life and activity; in decorative and applied arts, spatial analysis depends on the type of work), materials used, functionality (painting and graphics are mainly aesthetic; sculpture can be both aesthetic and functional; architecture combines functionality and aesthetics; decorative and applied arts serve both functions), and artistic form (painting: analysis of colour, light and shadow, perspective; graphics: analysis of line, stroke, tone; sculpture: analysis of volume, plasticity, silhouette; architecture: analysis of layout, construction, proportions; decorative and applied arts: analysis of decoration, materials, etc.). The article includes an example of how the same work of art can be analyzed in grades 5, 6, and 7 according to the topics studied in the integrated course “Art.”