Analyzing Visual Art Analyzing a piece of visual art can be an enjoyable and thoughtful exercise. Begin by noting your first impressions, such as shock, anger, happiness, or pleasure. Then, consider the name of the painting and the details about when, where, and for what purpose it was created. Next, study the subject matter: Who or what is in the picture? What actions are taking place? After analyzing the subject matter, analyze the composition and design: What role does light or dark play in this picture? Which colors predominate? Are the lines and shapes distinct or are they irregular or broken? What did the artist choose? Finally, identify the painting period style or "school," a particular artistic movement recognized by common characteristics as belonging to a particular group of painters. A painting by Claude Monet depicts a woman strolling in a park, with her toddler son. The woman carries a parasol. Courtesy of National Portrait Gallery: Claude Monet, "Woman With a Parasol" (1899)

Which of the following best describes the subject matter?
a. A still life Nonrepresentational art
b. A landscape
c. A surreal scene
d. A scene with one or more figures
d. A portrait