Explain how what you see is being used. For example, the crack is at the center of the bell as if being presented instead of hidden. It could have easily been turned to hide the flaw.

What’s required in a Visual Analysis writing assignment?

When analyzing a visual, whether it be a piece of art, a cartoon, or a piece of media, be sure to include the following elements in the analysis.

Describe

Take inventory of the broader picture as well as the details. What do you see? For example, there’s a visible crack in the bronze-colored liberty bell.

Analyze

Explain how what you see is being used. For example, the crack is at the center of the bell as if being presented instead of hidden. It could have easily been turned to hide the flaw.

Interpret

What is going on, and what does it mean? For example, this crack in the symbol of democracy and freedom implies an imperfect system.

Evaluate

Do you like this image? Is it making its point clearly? Is anything required for it to be understood by a broad audience? If it’s in a museum, why is it here? Is it “museum- quality”?

When writing a visual analysis, do not start with “In my/this piece…” Instead, introduce the piece by name, its creator, and its context, if relevant.