The Nine Themes of Visual Arts by Fredrick B. Lanuza, Ph.D.

The elements listed below were developed by Dr. Fredrick Lanuza and presented at the Computer-Using Educators Annual Conference in 2008.

1. The Subject: Describe what you see — person, place, thing
2. Reasons: Determine the purpose of the work in societal, chronological, and environmental terms
3. Lines: Identify line directions and types (e.g., straight, curvy, rhythmic)
4. Colors: Describe the hue (name), value (level of lighting, brightness), and intensity (brightness, dullness)
5. Form: Describe apparent shapes — regular vs. irregular, definite vs. suggestive
6. Texture: Consider materials used, surface quality, and smooth/rough aspects
7. Focal Points: To what part of the picture are the eyes drawn?
8. Imagination: What does the picture conjure for the beholder?
9. Judgment: What elements of the picture does the audience like and dislike?

Note: The first eight themes may be addressed in any order, but “Judgment” must not occur until after addressing all other eight themes.