Visual Arts EE: Treatment of the Topic
The topic must be clearly connected to visual arts, not just loosely related. A strong research question should allow for critical analysis, be of personal interest, and be supported by a range of reliable primary and secondary sources (e.g., artworks, interviews, scholarly texts).
Students must use and analyze visual references meaningfully—images should support the argument and be properly cited and placed near relevant discussion.
While primary sources are ideal (local artworks, interviews, firsthand analysis), high-quality reproductions are acceptable if access is limited. The essay should show critical thinking, awareness of the art's origin and purpose, and a well-supported argument, not just opinions.
Students should continuously reflect on the value of sources used and ensure their essay aligns with the assessment criteria throughout the process.
Visual Arts EE: Choice of Topic
Choose a focused, analytical, and clearly art-related topic. Avoid broad, descriptive, or narrative-based essays that summarize general sources (like encyclopedias or art history textbooks). Instead, develop a specific research question that supports critical thinking and leads to a personal conclusion.
Biographies are only appropriate when connected to a deeper inquiry—not just a recounting of an artist’s life. Likewise, avoid topics covering long time periods or entire movements unless narrowed to a clear focus.
Better Topic Examples:
“How did Wassily Kandinsky use colour?” (✔️)
vs. “The Bauhaus” (✘)
“An analysis of African influences on Henry Moore” (✔️)
vs. “20th-century British sculpture” (✘)
“What is the artistic significance of recent poles raised by the First Nations of Haida-Gwai?” (✔️)
vs. “The art of Native North American people” (✘)
“Klimt’s use of gold” (✔️)
vs. “Sezession in Berlin” (✘)
“Robert Ntila’s etching techniques: a critical investigation” (✔️)
vs. “Contemporary East African art” (✘)
Additional Good Examples (For Reference, NOT for Use):
“How does Jenny Holzer use text to challenge political authority?”
“The influence of Japanese woodblock prints on Vincent van Gogh’s composition choices”
“How did Frida Kahlo's health and heritage shape her self-portraiture?”
“To what extent does Kehinde Wiley subvert classical portrait traditions?”
“Exploring materiality: How does El Anatsui use recycled materials to redefine sculpture?”
Topic Structure Tip:
Start with a topic, then develop a research question and an approach to guide your essay.
Topic: Cultural influences on Picasso
Question: Picasso: individual genius or cultural thief?
Approach: Investigate appropriation in selected works
Topic: Architecture in Montreal
Question: Is Cathédrale Marie-Reine-du-Monde a replica of St Peter’s, Rome?
Approach: Compare stylistic features of the two buildings
Topic: Migration and identity
Question: What is the impact of transcultural experience on the art of Gu Xiong?
Approach: Explore changes in style and subject matter post-migration