A Visual Arts Teacher,
Photographer and Practitioner Researcher
Comparative Study
Analyzing and Connecting Artworks
Objective:
Help students develop their critical thinking and art analysis skills by exploring different cultures, artistic movements, and themes.
Understanding Comparative Study in Visual Arts
What is a Comparative Study?
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A structured analysis of at least two or more artworks from different cultures, artists, or time periods.
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Students will compare techniques, styles, symbols, and meanings within their chosen artworks.
Why is it important?
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Enhances visual literacy and critical analysis.
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Encourages an appreciation for diverse artistic expressions.
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Develops connections between history, culture, and artistic intent.
What is required?
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SL Students will submit 10-15 screens which examine and compare at least three artworks, at least two of which should be by different artists. The work selected for comparison and analysis should come from contrasting contexts (local, national, international and or/intercultural)
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HL Students submit 3-5 additional screens which analyze the extent to which their work and practices have been influenced by the art and artists examined.
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HL Students submit a list of sources used.
Comparative Study Assessment Criteria
Understanding the Assessment Criteria
Criterion A: Identification and Analysis of Formal Qualities
💡 Key Question:
How effectively does the student analyze the formal qualities of the selected artworks?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion A
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Students must identify and discuss elements of art (e.g., line, shape, color, texture, composition).
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They should analyze the principles of design (e.g., balance, contrast, rhythm, unity).
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They must describe techniques, media, and artistic styles in detail.
Example of a Formal Analysis:
"In Van Gogh’s Starry Night, swirling brushstrokes create a rhythmic movement, while the thick impasto application enhances texture, making the sky feel alive. The use of complementary colors—yellow and blue—creates strong visual contrast, emphasizing the dynamic energy of the scene."
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Artist: Vincent van Gogh
Tittle: "The Starry Night" (1889)
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions73.7 cm × 92.1 cm (29.01 in × 36.26 in)
Location: Museum of Modern Art, New York
Criterion B: Analysis and Understanding of Function & Purpose
💡 Key Question:
How effectively does the student analyze the meaning, function, and context of the artworks?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion B
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Students should interpret the artist’s intent (Why was this artwork created? What message does it convey?).
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They should consider historical, political, cultural, or religious influences.
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They must analyze how the artwork was used in its original context.
Example of good analysis:
"Frida Kahlo’s The Two Fridas reflects her struggle with identity, torn between her Mexican heritage and European influences. The exposed heart symbolizes emotional vulnerability, while the linked veins represent an unbreakable connection to her roots."
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Artist: Frida Kahlo
Title: "The Two Fridas (Las dos Fridas)" 1939,
Media: Oil on Canvas,
Dimensions: 67-11/16 x 67-11/16"
Location: Museo de Arte Moderno, Mexico City
Criterion C: Analysis and Evaluation of Cultural Significance
💡 Key Question:
How well does the student explore and compare different cultural perspectives?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion C
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Students must compare artworks from at least two different cultures or artistic traditions.
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They should explore how cultural factors influence artistic choices.
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They must discuss how these artworks reflect their societies.
Example of a Cultural Comparison:
"Japanese Ukiyo-e prints influenced European Impressionists like Monet, particularly in their use of asymmetry and flat planes of color. While Japanese prints were used for mass production, Impressionists adapted similar aesthetics to capture fleeting moments in nature."
Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints
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Impressionism Paintings
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Criterion D: Making Comparisons and Connections
💡 Key Question:
How well does the student connect the artworks to art movements, theories, or historical developments?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion D
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Students must reference artistic movements (e.g., Cubism, Surrealism, Minimalism).
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They should link their analysis to key art theories (e.g., Formalism, Postmodernism, Feminist Art Theory).
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They must explore historical/artistic influences (e.g., How did previous movements shape these works?).
Example of Presentation:
Clear headings, subheadings, and bullet points for readability.
High-quality images of artworks with citations.
Thoughtful comparative analysis with side-by-side visuals.
Credit Image: ibdpvawithmissa.com
Criterion E: Presentation & Subject-Specific Language
💡 Key Question:
How well is the Comparative Study structured, presented, and supported with evidence?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion D
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Students must organize their study in a clear, logical format.
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They should use well-structured paragraphs, appropriate terminology, and critical analysis.
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All claims should be supported with visual evidence and citations.
Example of a Theoretical Analysis:
"Kandinsky’s abstract compositions align with Formalism, focusing on pure visual expression without narrative. Meanwhile, Pollock’s action painting embodies Gestalt psychology, emphasizing subconscious creation and the viewer’s perception. Despite both artists relying heavily on the Element of Art Color, the approach adopted by each one is different, generating in the viewers an array of interpretations and emotions."
Wassily Kandinsky
Jackson Pollock
Criterion F: Making Connections To Own Art-Making Practice (HL Only)
💡 Key Question:
How effectively does the student apply their research from the Comparative Study to their own artistic practice?
IBDP Visual Arts Requirements for Criterion F:
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Students must identify and explain how their research influences their own artwork.
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Students should apply ideas, techniques, or concepts from their Comparative Study into their own creative process.
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They should document their connections with visuals and written reflections.
Identify Influences from the Comparative Study
(HL) Students should answer:
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Which artists or artworks inspired you?
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What specific techniques, materials, or concepts can you use?
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How does your study of different cultures or movements impact your artistic choices?
Example of a strong response:
"After analyzing Yayoi Kusama’s repetitive dot patterns and vibrant color schemes, I decided to integrate a similar approach into my painting. I experimented with layering acrylic paint and stenciling to mimic Kusama’s immersive polka-dot effect, creating a sense of infinity in my work."
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Yayoi Kusama is a visionary Japanese artist known for her mesmerizing polka dots, infinity mirror rooms, and immersive installations that explore themes of infinity, self-obliteration, and mental landscapes
Final Takeaways for Success in the Comparative Study
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Follow a structured format: → Describe → Analyze → Compare → Reflect.
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Use critical thinking and avoid simple descriptions.
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Make clear connections between artworks, cultural contexts, and personal practice.
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Cite sources and include visual evidence.
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Use formal, clear language with well-structured arguments.
Practical Activities & Projects
Practice with a series of exercises that will help you to improve your Comparative Study and obtain a high mark
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