Glossary
Analyze Results (process)
The step of critically evaluating what worked, what didn't, and why, based on recorded experiments and observations.
Example:
After trying three different glazes, the ceramicist needed to analyze the results to understand which one achieved the desired texture and color.
Character Count
The total number of characters, including spaces and punctuation, allowed for written responses in the AP submission, requiring concise writing.
Example:
Students must be mindful of the character count when writing their artist statements, often needing to abbreviate to stay within the limit.
Documenting your artistic process
The act of systematically recording the steps, decisions, experiments, and reflections involved in creating an artwork, often done in a sketchbook.
Example:
For his AP portfolio, Leo meticulously focused on documenting his artistic process, including photos of his work in progress and detailed notes on why he chose certain techniques.
Guiding Question
A central inquiry or theme that an artist explores throughout a body of work, providing focus and direction.
Example:
Her entire portfolio revolved around the guiding question: 'How does light transform perception?'
Hypothesis (in art context)
An initial idea or guiding question that an artist sets out to explore or test through their creative work.
Example:
Before starting her series on urban decay, Chloe's hypothesis was: 'Can beauty be found in forgotten spaces?'
Idea (WHY)
The underlying concept, guiding question, or artistic intent that drives the creation of an artwork.
Example:
The central idea (WHY) behind his sculpture was to explore the fragility of human connection in a digital age.
Materials (WHAT)
The physical substances or media used to create an artwork, such as paint, clay, wire, or digital software.
Example:
For her mixed-media piece, the materials (WHAT) included recycled plastic, acrylic paint, and found objects from the beach.
Materials and Techniques
The understanding and skillful application of various art media and methods used to create an artwork.
Example:
The artist's mastery of materials and techniques was evident in the intricate details of the linocut print, showcasing precise carving and inking.
Peer Edit
The process of having classmates or colleagues review one's written work or artwork to provide constructive feedback and identify areas for improvement.
Example:
Before finalizing her artist statement, Maria asked a friend to peer edit it, ensuring her ideas were clear and easy to understand.
Plan Next Steps (process)
Using the analysis of previous experiments to inform and strategize the subsequent actions in the artistic development.
Example:
Based on the feedback from her peer critique, Sarah decided to plan next steps for her painting, focusing on refining the color palette and adding more dynamic brushstrokes.
Process (High-Priority Topic)
The demonstration of the creative journey, including experimentation, problem-solving, and decision-making, which is highly valued in AP Art & Design.
Example:
The AP reader was impressed by the student's clear articulation of their process, showing how they moved from initial sketches to the final piece.
Processes (HOW)
The actions, techniques, and methods employed by the artist during the creation of an artwork.
Example:
The processes (HOW) involved in creating the print included etching, inking, and multiple passes through the press.
Record Everything (process)
The practice of noting down all experiments, materials, and actions taken during the creation of an artwork.
Example:
When experimenting with new dyes, it's crucial to record everything, from the exact measurements of dye to the temperature of the water, to ensure repeatable results.
Record of your artistic journey
The comprehensive documentation within a sketchbook that tracks an artist's growth, experiments, and decision-making over time.
Example:
Looking back at her record of her artistic journey, Maya could see how her initial abstract ideas evolved into concrete forms through various iterations and material tests.
Reflection and Revision
The critical steps of evaluating one's work and making changes based on analysis and feedback to improve the artwork and artistic understanding.
Example:
Through consistent reflection and revision, the student transformed a simple drawing into a complex narrative piece, learning from each iteration.
Reflections (artwork)
Personal thoughts and critical evaluations by the artist about their completed or in-progress artwork, including what they liked, what they would change, and future directions.
Example:
In her reflections on the portrait, the student noted that she was pleased with the likeness but wished she had experimented more with background textures.
Size (artwork)
The physical dimensions of an artwork, typically measured as height, width, and depth.
Example:
The monumental sculpture had an impressive size of 10 feet high by 5 feet wide, requiring special installation.
Sketchbook
A critical tool for artists to document their creative process, serving as a visual laboratory for ideas and experimentation.
Example:
An artist uses their sketchbook to brainstorm ideas for a new sculpture, drawing multiple angles and material possibilities before starting the physical work.
Visual Diary
A sketchbook used to record daily observations, thoughts, and artistic explorations, reflecting the artist's ongoing creative journey.
Example:
Sarah's visual diary is filled with quick sketches of people on the subway, color swatches from sunsets, and notes on her feelings, all contributing to her next painting series.
Work Title
The specific name given to an individual artwork, often reflecting its content, theme, or inspiration.
Example:
The artist decided on 'Echoes of the Forest' as the work title for her painting, feeling it captured the ethereal quality of the trees.
Writing About Your Art
The crucial skill of articulating the 'what,' 'how,' and 'why' of one's artwork for an audience, especially for portfolio submissions.
Example:
Effective writing about your art helps AP readers understand your artistic intent and the depth of your creative process.