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Assignment #12

The Museum of Modern Art 

Rhetorical Analysis of Visual Form-Elements of visual language

This is an analysis of two pieces of artwork displayed in MoMA. The name of the first artwork is called “Tapestry no.6”. The name influences my experience of the artwork because I already know what type of art it is. Just like the name says, it is a woolen piece of art. The artist is Yente (Eugenia Crenovich) and the artwork was created in 1958. During the time of 1958, there were a lot of wars like the Cold War and the Vietnam War. The name of the second artwork is called “Colors for a Large Wall”. The name influences my experience of the artwork because it literally says what it is. It is a painting of many colors on a large canvas. The artist is Ellsworth Kelly and the artwork was created in 1951. This piece of artwork was also created during the Cold War and Vietnam War. There is no text in either of the artworks. 

There is a lot of color used in both pieces of art which gives off mixed feelings. Although the artworks both use many different colors, they give off a feeling of confusion and at loss. But, I think both authors want to give off positive feelings encouraging people and bringing energy to people during those times of war by using bright colors. The composition of “Tapestry no.6” features intricate patterns and designs, with elements arranged in a dynamic and visually engaging way. It draws our eyes across the artwork, exploring the interplay of colors and shapes. In contrast, “Colors for a Large Wall” features large, solid-colored panels arranged in a grid-like formation. The composition is characterized by its simplicity and symmetry which allows the colors to take center stage without any distractions. “Colors for a Large Wall” is more organized than “Tapestry no.6”.  

Both artworks are likely intended to evoke emotional responses from us, the viewers. Yente’s “Tapestry no.6” may appeal to a wide range of audiences with its vibrant colors and dynamic composition. Seeing the tapestry in person in a museum setting allows us to fully appreciate its scale, texture, and craftsmanship. On the other hand, Ellsworth Kelly’s “Colors for a Large Wall” may target audiences interested in minimalist art and abstract expressionism. The artwork’s purpose may be to explore the relationships between color, form, and space. Seeing the artwork in person in the museum allows us to experience its scale, presence, and impact firsthand. 

“Tapestry no.6” -Yente (Eugenia Crenovich) 1958
“Colors for a Large Wall” -Ellsworth Kelly 1951