Topic: Print making, John Torreano, Oxygems

Order Description

• Choose a contemporary print or work on paper that uses print techniques or alternative photography print using techniques discussed in class (Cyanotype, etc.).
• If you choose a historical print, it must be paired as a compare/contrast with a contemporary print.
• The work chosen should be relevant to the media/materials/demo/process used in the printmaking class so that you have a direct connection to the work.
• You should choose a work that is challenging, not just one that you like, so that you have enough material at hand to really think beyond your preconceptions about art and are able to write a 4 – 5 page paper that is not repetitive.
• There is a three-fold structure to the paper:
1. Description in detail (place, title, artist, theme of overall exhibition, placement,
framing, lighting, major defining elements, etc.)
2. Why you chose this piece/ note dominant element
3. Analysis of work supported by visual elements and research
• The emphasis should be on the analysis
• There should be a strong component of research that is a concise synthesis (a half paragraph at most) of the concept or context of the work, not a bio of the artist’s life. The information should be as pertinent as possible to the work at hand and not overly generalized. If you don’t understand a phrase, period of time, or technique look it up, try to understand it, and then put it in your own words. If it still does not make sense don’t use it.
• If you do not cite your sources it is considered plagarism. If you do not put the research into your own words, also with noted sources cited, it is considered plagarism. Many times this is grounds for an F on the paper or in the course depending on the weight of the paper. This is then followed by a letter to the Dean of your College. A number of these letters eventually could build up a case for expulsion, so be very, very careful to place your research in quotes or in your own words and always, always note and cite your sources. Also, keep in mind that Wikipedia is not a legitimate source.
• As a final item, be sure to re-read your paper for grammatical errors and misspellings. Do this a number of times, before you hand it in. Not editing your work beforehand can bring down your grade even though your paper might be on the right track, idea-wise. Also, delete words like “truly” or “masterpiece’ or “genius”. State what you mean clearly, honestly, intelligently and don’t add what one might term “fluff”. Always be concise and direct.