In your Higher Exam you will be expected to discuss the following areas of pattern

• Repeating elements

• Scale and proportion of pattern

• Description of the pattern — for example decorative, striped, checked, spotted, floral, regular, irregular, geometric, organic, linear

• The effect patten has on the visual impact or mood and atmosphere of the piece.

When answering a question it's good practice to have structure for each point you make. 

What - Name what the visual element or expressive effect you want to discuss is

Where - Describe exactly where in the painting it is 

Why - Analyse what the impact of the element used has on the overall visual impact or mood and atmosphere of the piece.

Key - What - Blue, Where - Red, Why - Purple

The artist has created a linear grid like pattern in the window and through the long, vertical lines seen in the curtains and window panes. This leads the viewer’s eye down into the centre of the composition ensuring the viewer concentrates on the people.

The artist has used a relaxed organic pattern, which can be seen in the repetition of legs of the family members. The rhythm created helps to lead the viewer’s eye across the composition allowing the viewer to take in all of the family members 1 by 1, despite the otherwise chaotic feel.

The artist has used busy irregular patterns which have been created through the replication of the Xerox transfers seen in the wallpaper, floor and clothing. The repetition of these images suggests a patchwork effect and helps to create continuity within the main areas of the composition by linking them visually together.

The artist has used a regular pattern of dense, horizontal stripes on the children’s clothing, this creates a contrast with the plain coloured clothes of the surrounding figures. This draws out attention to this area of the painting making them stand out from the other children and the adults.