4 Seconds to Look

This exercise is a good one to use at the beginning of a tour to get the group to focus and really look carefully. Four seconds is more time than most people look at a work of art. The exercise works best with a complex works of art. Have students enter gallery with backs towards the work of art to be used. Instruct them to turn, look for 4 seconds and then turn back to artwork. Ask what they saw. Ask if others agree. Encourage descriptive communication of objects, colors, shapes, lines, textures, etc. The work of art may appear different to each person – there is no right answer!