Sample Artwork Analysis Essay: Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night”

Below is a sample outline and a well-developed essay in MLA for an artwork analysis essay on Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” This sample is intended to help students write better essays.

Artwork Analysis Essay: Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night”

Sample Artwork Analysis Essay Outline: Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night”

1. Introduction
   • Briefly introduce Vincent van Gogh and his significance as an artist.
   • Provide background information on “Starry Night,” including its creation date, medium, and location.
   • Present the thesis statement that outlines the main points of your analysis.
2. Body Paragraphs
   1. Description of the Artwork
      • Describe the artwork’s physical features:
      • Size, dimensions, and scale
      • Color palette and use of color
      • Composition, including elements like the swirling sky, village, and cypress tree
      • Texture and brushwork
      • Details of the night scene, including stars and the moon
      • Mistake to Avoid: Offering personal opinions or interpretations at this stage; focus on objective description.
   2. Historical and Cultural Context
      • Discuss the historical and cultural context of the artwork:
      • The Post-Impressionist movement and van Gogh’s place in art history
      • Van Gogh’s mental state and the circumstances surrounding the creation of “Starry Night”
      • Any significant events or influences on the artist during this period
      • Mistake to Avoid: Making assumptions about van Gogh’s mental state without evidence.
   3. Analysis of Visual Elements
      • Analyze the visual elements used in the artwork:
      • The use of color to convey emotions and create depth
      • The swirling patterns and movement in the sky
      • The symbolism of the cypress tree and the village
      • The contrast between the calm village and the tumultuous sky
      • The use of texture and brushwork to evoke feelings
      • Mistake to Avoid: Making vague or unsupported statements about the visual elements.
   4. Interpretation of Symbolism and Meaning
      • Interpret the symbolism and meaning in “Starry Night”:
      • The emotional and psychological impact of the artwork
      • The possible interpretation of the swirling sky and the bright stars
      • The role of the cypress tree as a symbol of life and death
      • How the composition conveys van Gogh’s state of mind
      • Mistake to Avoid: Over-interpreting or misattributing meaning without evidence from the artwork.
   5. Emotional and Psychological Impact
      • Discuss the emotional and psychological impact the artwork has on viewers:
      • How the artwork’s visual elements evoke emotions and reactions
      • The sense of movement and dynamism in the painting
      • The viewer’s experience when contemplating “Starry Night”
      • Mistake to Avoid: Neglecting to explore the emotional and psychological effects of the artwork.
3. Conclusion
   • Summarize the main points of your analysis, restate your thesis.
   • Offer insights into the enduring significance and influence of “Starry Night” in the art world.
   • Conclude with a reflection on the lasting impact of van Gogh’s masterpiece.
4. References
   • Include a list of references or citations in the appropriate citation style (e.g., MLA, APA).
   • Follow the instructions provided by your college/ institution.

This sample outline provides a structured framework for your analysis of “Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh, allowing you to explore the artwork’s visual elements, historical context, symbolism, and emotional impact systematically.