The Art of Seeing Art: A, B & See

The Art of Seeing Art: A, B & See by presents a six-step process for understanding and appreciating art on a deeper level. Each step builds upon the previous one, guiding readers towards a more comprehensive and insightful engagement with artworks.

1. Look

The first step in the process is looking. While it may seem obvious, it is crucial to give special attention to this step. Taking the time to slow down and look carefully at an artwork is essential. It allows us to fully absorb its visual elements and details.

2. Observe

Observation, the second step, goes hand in hand with looking. It involves actively engaging with the artwork, dedicating time and attention to it. Through observation, we begin to build a mental catalogue of the image’s visual elements, further enhancing our understanding.

3. See

Moving on to the third step, “See,” the book distinguishes between looking, which is a physical act, and seeing, which is a mental process of perception. Seeing involves connecting the visual information with one’s previous knowledge and experiences to create meaning. It requires time and focused attention to recognise patterns, symbolism, and connections within the artwork.

4. Describe

The fourth step is “Describe.” Describing helps viewers identify and organise their thoughts about what they have seen. It is akin to taking a careful inventory of the artwork’s elements. By using the language of art, including the Elements of Art and Principles of Design, viewers can articulate their observations and better understand the formal qualities and composition of the artwork.

5. Analyse

The fifth step is “Analyse.” This step involves applying reason and critical thinking to the details identified in the description. Analysis enables viewers to interpret the artwork and consider how the various elements fit together to tell a story or convey meaning. The book suggests analysing the artwork through different lenses, such as focusing on its formal qualities, recognising symbolic elements, considering cultural and historical context, and exploring the intended meaning.

6. Interpret

Finally, interpretation, the last step, combines the previous steps with our previous knowledge and information about the artist and the work. It allows us to draw conclusions about the image and develop a personal understanding of its meaning. Interpretation is influenced by our individual experiences, cultural background, and societal context.

It is important to note that interpretation is not a fixed or definitive conclusion. It is a dynamic process that can change over time. Just as reading a book multiple times brings new insights, interpreting an artwork can evolve with each encounter. The process of interpretation leads back to the initial act of looking, creating a cyclical nature to understanding art.

The book ‘The Art of Seeing Art: A, B & See’ emphasises that the process of understanding art is not linear but rather cyclical. After reaching the stage of interpretation, viewers are encouraged to return to the initial step of looking, as interpretation can influence subsequent observations. This cyclical approach acknowledges that artworks can be continually reinterpreted and that each viewing experience contributes to a deeper understanding of the art.

Throughout the book, numerous examples and exercises are provided to help readers apply the six-step process to various artworks. By following these steps, readers can develop their skills of observation, analysis, and interpretation

The Art of Seeing Art. process emphasises the importance of looking, observing, seeing, describing, analysing, and interpreting to develop a deeper understanding of visual artworks. By engaging with these steps, individuals can enhance their visual literacy and appreciate art in a more nuanced and meaningful way.