THEMATIC PAPER GUIDELINES The thematic research paper entails writing an in-depth analysis of artwo ...
THEMATIC PAPER GUIDELINES The thematic research paper entails writing an in-depth analysis of artwork produced by an African American with emphasis on a chosen theme, concept or idea. In the paper you must demonstrate knowledge of, and conduct a critical analysis of a particular artist, style, content, purpose, coupled with a formal analysis. Sample themes include (you may choose a theme of your own): AFRICANISMS AGIT-PROP ALLEGORY APPROPRIATION COLOR CREATIVE IMPULSE EMOTION (feeling, mood, etc.) GENDER ICONOGRAPHY/SYMBOLISM IDENTITY ISSUES OBJECTIFICATION / STEREOTYPES POLITICS PORTRAITS POWER PROPAGANDA RACE RELIGION SELF-PORTRAITS SEXUALITY SOCIAL JUSTICE/INJUSTICE SPIRITUALITY TRAGEDY WAR The thematic research paper should be a minimum of 8 double-spaced typed pages (not including images or bibliography) using a 12-point font, and consist of a theme of your choice focusing on African American art. The paper should demonstrate your knowledge of the work of artist(s), style, period, or subject matter selected as it relates to your theme. The paper should be a critical analysis of the work (compare/contrast paper is best), with reference to historical, social, political, etc. issues. An informational paper is also acceptable, but you will receive a lower grade. A bibliography of a MINIMUM of 3 sources should be at the end of your paper. Your sources should consist of published books or peer reviewed journal articles (the textbook can be used as a reference but not one of main sources for your paper). Cite your sources throughout the paper and include a works cited page at the end of your paper. Final paper due dates: Paper topics due - April 22nd Paper proposal presentation - Submissions and response due between May 1st and May 4th Final paper/project due - May 17th 11:59 p.m. GUIDELINES Start research early. Begin looking in the library and online for books related to your artist. If you cannot find a book in the library, you can request it through interlibrary loan (ask librarian). Research options: Library on-line catalogue San Diego State University Library Resources Other Public Libraries (USD and UCSD have extensive art sections) Internet. If you use the Internet for information you must cite the information in the proper format (check citation handbooks - Chicago Manual of Style). The most reliable information comes from academic sites (i.e. .edu), museums, galleries, or institutions that focus on a particular subject. Choose 2-3 images to analyze in paper that connect to your theme. Compile information. Read your articles and books. Based on your readings choose 2 to 3 art pieces to discuss. Remember to read, observe and then think about the art object in relation to the readings. Read books on writing about art for tips. Writing the paper. The paper should be a critical analysis of the work, but an informational paper is also acceptable. When you begin writing the paper make sure you state your thesis or point in the first paragraph. Begin with a brief outline of the background information (historical, cultural, religious) of the artist/culture you chose (the entire paper should not be biographical or purely an informative paper). The main body of the paper should be a discussion of the works of art you chose (2-3 is good). A discussion of the formal elements, principles of design, content/meaning, and background factors is important, including the critical analysis from your sources that relate to your theme. You should also include a proper conclusion to the paper, summarizing the main points of the paper, restating key points about the artist/culture and the work(s) discussed. Paper formatting (Chicago Manual of Style) 1-inch margins 12 pt. font (Times New Roman) Double-spaced If images are imbedded into document text must still equal 8 pages Once the paper is completed, set it aside for a day and reread the paper for any structural or spelling errors (remember you can turn the paper in early for comments and suggestions). The final paper should include: Research paper (8 pages) (Name in upper left-hand corner). Works Cited Page (and your sources should be cited throughout your paper). Photocopies of the works of art discussed, titled and numbered (you may have to upload them separately).
