How

Research into art can be done in many different ways. For example, visiting an art gallery or a museum would count as research as it gives you a first-hand look at existing pieces and acts as a source of inspiration.

Another primary way of researching art is by looking through books. Books on artist usually show off some of their most famous works, meaning and inspirations of each individual piece as well as giving you information about the artist’s life itself so you can get a better understanding of how they felt at the time, and therefore a stronger understanding of their art piece.

The final main way I had to research art is through online research. Websites such as Tate, or even official websites set up by the artists themselves act similarly in a way to as a book on the artist would, although not as in-depth.

Why

We do research in order to get a better understanding of the primary sources of inspiration for specific pieces, their thoughts and ideas during their artistic process, and even the artists themselves. With artist research we can go back and see the historic effects of the art, seeing where artistic cultures and movements began as well as the people who started them off.

It also works well as a way to be introduced to some new artists. Through my artist research, I’ve found some artists I otherwise may have never heard of, and in some cases, this has introduced me to a completely new style of art which appeals to me personally, teaching me new techniques and processes of art and giving me an overall further understanding of the topic.