Comparative Study

Link to IB Outline of Comparative Study Requirements in the Visual Art Guide

Intro to CS

24m

Comparative Study Requirements

Submission Overview:

15 screens: A visual and written comparison of at least three artworks, from different cultural contexts, created by at least two different artists.
HL ONLY 5 screens: Analyze how the selected artworks and artists have influenced your own art-making and thinking.
Source list: Include a bibliography of all sources used.

Content Guidelines:

Include both written analysis and visual elements (e.g., annotated images, diagrams, flowcharts, mind maps, sketches).
Begin with a short introduction outlining the scope and focus of the study.
Use art-specific vocabulary and ensure sources are properly cited.
Maintain a balanced presentation of text and visuals across screens.

For Each Artwork, Object, or Artifact:
Analyze with consideration of:

Assessment Criteria for the Comparative Study

A. Identification and analysis of formal qualities - 6 points

B. Analysis an understanding of function and purpose - 6 points

C. Analysis and evaluation of cultural significance - 6 points

D. Making comparisons and connections - 6 points

E. Presentation and subject specific language - 6 points

F. HL ONLY - Making connections to own art-making practice - 12 points

Possible Layout Check List:

COMPARATIVE STUDY CHECKLIST Total Screens15

Comparative Study – How to Get Started (and Finish Strong)

There are many ways to approach the Comparative Study, but if you're feeling unsure, use this guide to stay on track.

1. Know What’s Expected

Go to the Comparative Study page on this website and read it carefully.
Look through the student examples to get ideas for layout, design, and creative ways to present your information.
Read through the rubric so you understand how you'll be assessed.

2. Choosing Your Artists

You should choose 2 artists from different cultural or historical contexts. While you’re allowed to include more, it doesn’t boost your score and can make things harder.
Pick artists who genuinely interest or inspire you, or whose work connects to your own ideas or themes. You’ll need to discuss how they influence your broader art practice—not just one of your artworks.
Your artists don’t need to be “old masters” like Da Vinci or Caravaggio, but they should not be social media creators without academic recognition.
How do you know if an artist is acceptable?
- If you can find scholarly writing (books, journal articles, museum essays) about them, you’re good.
- Avoid using art fair pamphlets, blog posts, or local event write-ups.
- If you're unsure about your artist or a source, ask your teacher.
The school library is your best starting point for solid, credible research.

3. How to Search for Art and Artists

Don’t start by searching a general topic like “creepy art” or “romantic paintings.” That often leads to unverified, low-quality sources.
Instead, explore real museums (online or in-person) and flip through actual art books. The more you dig, the more you’ll discover—and that’s how you learn something new.

4. Starting Your Project

Choose your artists
Make a new slideshow that will become your CS
Begin filling in slides as you read and research. Add artwork images, notes, and early comparisons.
Be sure to cite everything from the start
Revisit research tools like or EasyBib, especially if you practiced them during the Extended Essay
Look at past Comparative Studies to get ideas on how to structure and present your slides (see my website or search online)

5. Research Well and Often

6. Building Your Presentation

Begin with a title page that includes the title of your study and one cited image of each artwork you're using
Plan your structure: give each slide a clear heading so it’s easy to follow
Keep your ideas organized and make sure your presentation is visually balanced
Create a separate slide show just for your Works Cited / Bibliography. This is not counted as part of the 10–15 screen requirement

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