Writing an Art Review

Thinking about how to write an art review for your advanced reporting exam? Search no more.

Here is a few tips


You should a little bit about the history of the artist and (if possible) the particular piece of art that you really like. (I say "really like" because that way you will probably be able to think up more things to say about it - but you could also choose a piece that you really don't like, but then you should wonder why someone thought it was good enough to put into a museum).

With a little background information, you could either decide to focus on the importance of that particular work in relations to other examples of art of its type. More easily, you could try describing particular aspects of the work - it's use of colour to convey light or emotion, particular techniques employed and their success of those techniques, the overall impression that the work conveys.


Writing art reviews is a great way to meet people and build your credentials. It also provides good practice for honing your eye. You can’t help learning when you look closely and critically at lots of art.

Here are some tips on writing about art exhibits in galleries, art centers, and museums.

Think about the meaning and purpose of the
exhibition and the artwork. Ask yourself the
following questions:
"Why are the art pieces ordered or arranged this way?"
"Does a particular artwork stand out from the rest?"
"Is there a theme or a subtext to the exhibition?"
"How is this exhibit different from others I've seen?"
Take notes on the elements that interest you. If a particular artwork or artist stands out to you, take more detailed notes on that topic since it will most likely be something with which you have a personal connection.
Interview a fellow attendee about their experience of this exhibition. When interviewing your colleague, start with general questions and move on to more
directed questions that address specific pieces within the exhibition.

If you don’t like a particular artists work, use details from the work itself to explain your views and contrast this with another artist who you rate more highly.

If you do like the work, think clearly about what made it unique or fascinating, what the artist's goals were, and how they succeeded.

Rewrite and edit. Edit your review for spelling, grammar, redundancy, and anything that might put the reader to sleep.