research topics involving art

250+ Research Paper Topics for Art Lovers and Curious Minds

Table of contents

1 Argumentative Art Topics for Research Papers
2 Fun Art Research Ideas for Professional Writers
3 Controversial Art Research Topics
4 Gendered Roles in Modern Art Research
5 Art Topics for Research Papers: The Impacts of Technology
6.1 Themes in 21st Century Paintings
7 Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics
8 Art Research Topics on Different Cultures
9 Greek Art Research Paper Topics
10 Art Topics during the Byzantine Period
11 Medieval Art History Research Paper Topics
12 Renaissance Paper Topics
13 Research Paper Topics on the Baroque Era
14 The Impressionist Artistic Movement
15 The Modern Art Talk about Romanticism
16 The Art Influence of Mannerism
17 The Post-impressionist Art Movement
18 Surrealism in Art History
19 The Highlights of Cubism
20 The Avant-garde Art Topics
21 The Expressionist Art Movement
22 Topics on Dadaism
23 Pop Art Debate Topics
24 Art Education Research Topics in the 16th Century
25 Cool Art Ideas during the 17th Century
26 Research Papers on Art Produced during the 18th Century
27 The 19th Century Artistic Styles
28 The 20th Century’s Artistic Characteristics
29 Contemporary Art History Topics
30 Mexican Revolutionary Art Research Paper Topics
31 Architecture Research Paper Topics
32 Theater Research Paper Ideas
33 The Study of Photography as Research about Art
34.1 Art Topics Ideas Base on the Artists of the 18th Century
34.2 Artists of the 19th Century

Art has been a significant aspect of human civilization for centuries. From the earliest cave paintings to modern-day installations, art has served as a means of expression and communication. The study of art encompasses a broad range of disciplines, including art history, aesthetics, philosophy, sociology, and psychology. As such, the best controversial research paper topics within the field of art can be explored. This article aims to provide a comprehensive list of 250+ art topics covering various aspects of the discipline, including famous artists and artworks, art movements, theories and concepts, and social and political influences. These topics intend to inspire students and researchers before even choosing their favorite paper writing service and delving deeper into the complex world of art.

Argumentative Art Topics for Research Papers

Art has always been a recurring topic of debate, with different interpretations and perspectives on what it represents and its hidden meanings. From discussions on censorship and freedom of expression to art’s political implications, explore other possibilities in art.

Write a Critical Analysis of Censorship Issues and How They Can Limit Artistic Freedom.
Argue for or against Using Public Funds to Support Art and Institutions.
Discuss the Ethical Considerations Surrounding the Cultural Appropriation of Symbolisms.
Delimitate the Boundaries of the Tension between Art Commercialization and Artistic Expression’s Authenticity.
Study How the Relationship between Art and Identity Is Explored and How It Can Shape and Express Individual and Collective Identities.

Fun Art Research Ideas for Professional Writers

Even the most skilled professionals need help developing fresh inspiration for art-related topics and finding research paper writing help . With this list, we want to inspire writers to explore new horizons, from unconventional art mediums to unusual artists.

Graffiti Art: Exploring Its Significance and Evolution as a Legitimate Artistic Expression.
The Impact of Street Photography and How Does It Capture the Essence of Modern Life.
How Have Album Covers Influenced Popular Culture, and How Do They Reflect the Artistic Vision of Musicians and Artists?
Analyzing the History and Wonders of Asian Art and Animation and Its Impact on Popular Culture.
Find Out How Indigenous Art Explores Its Diverse Forms and How It Reflects on the Culture of Their Communities.

Controversial Art Research Topics

Art has always been polarizing, sparking debates on various issues. Whether you’re an art student or an enthusiast, you’ll find excellent history research paper topics on this list.

Examining the Limits of Expression through the Lenses of Artistic Freedom.
The Power and Perils of Art Representing Marginalized Communities.
What Responsibilities Do Collectors Have When Collecting Debatable Pieces?
Reckoning with the past and the Controversial Legacy of Colonial Art.
How Do Artists Navigate Appropriation through the Problematic Nature of Artistic Inspiration?
Write an Argumentative Essay About the Use of Religious Imagery: Is It Blasphemy or Legitimate Creative Expression?
Censorship: Protecting Public Morals or Inhibiting Creativity?

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Gendered Roles in Modern Art Research

Historically male dominance in art has resulted in a limited representation of women. Few female artists are recognized for their contributions, bringing discussions on gendered roles in modern art to the forefront. Check out some fine arts research paper topics.

Explore the Works of Frida Kahlo and Unravel Gendered Representations in Modern Art.
The Impact on the Evolution of Feminist Art Generated by Tracey Emin’s Work.
Research Marina Abramovic’s Pieces and Learn How She Pushed Boundaries on Gender and Performance Art.
How to See beyond the Male Gaze through John Berger’s “Ways of Seeing” While Critiquing the Objectification of Fine Art.
The Art of Challenging Conventional Female Roles by Agnes Martin.
Take an in Depth Look at Cindy Sherman’s Gender and Identity Exploration in Contemporary Art.
Defying Conservative Norms and Embracing the Body – The Visual Art of Kiki Smith.
Learn More about the Rise of Women Artists in Modern Art Following the Artworks of Yayoi Kusama.

Art Topics for Research Papers: The Impacts of Technology

Technology has opened up several possibilities, from digital media and virtual reality installations to 3D printing, computer-generated imagery, or even an essay writing service . Look at some of the most interesting art topics that explore this relationship.

Examine How Technology Has Enabled New Forms of Artistic Expression through Digital Art.
Art Democratization: How Technology Has Made It Easier for Artists to Reach Wider Audiences.
The Transformation of Experience and Interaction with Modern World Art through AR Technology.
AI and New Art Forms: Potential to Challenge Traditional Notions of Creativity.
Explore How New Social Media Platforms Have Transformed the Ways We Consume Art.
How Can Digital Technology Preserve and Restore Deteriorating Works of True Art?

Interesting Modern and Contemporary Art Topics

From abstract Expressionism to Pop Art, contemporary artists have explored many creative avenues, resulting in thought-provoking works that challenge traditional notions of art. Check out some ideas for those who want to buy research papers about different epochs in Modern Art.

Kandinsky, Pollock, and Rothko Pave the Path with the Force of Chaos and Calm.
Artists like Banksy, Kruger and Weiwei Boldly Show Us How to Discuss Today’s Issues.
Understand How Fairey, Botero, and Holzer Revolutionize the World through Art.
Find Out Where Creativity Meets Technology with Arcangel, Utterback, and Lozano-Hemmer.
Fashion and Art Become the Perfect Pairing: Warhol, Dali, and Haring Meet Saint Laurent, Schiaparelli, and Scott.
Shattering Stereotypes – Chicago, Sherman, and Ono Challenge the Status Quo.
Richter, Hirst, and Walker Demonstrate the Ongoing Relevance of Modern Art.

Themes in 21st Century Paintings

Explore beyond the Representation of Identity in Kerry James Marshall’s “Untitled (Studio)” and Lynette Yiadom-Boakye’s “Mascara.”
Use the Landscapes of David Hockney and Anselm Kiefer’s “The Field” to Reflect on Environmental Consciousness.
Analyze the Works of Yinka Shonibare Mbe and Kara Walker’s “A Subtlety.” to Understand Global Visions and Cultural Exchange.
Politics Occur in Street Art, Becoming Activism in Banksy’s Art and AI Weiwei’s “Sunflower Seeds.”
Memory, Nostalgia, and Figurative Painting in the Works of Elizabeth Peyton and Lisa Yuskavage’s “Night.”
“Untitled” by Cecily Brown and the Works of Gerhard Richter: Abstraction and Emotion.
Technology in Contemporary Painting with Jenny Saville’s “Ancestors” and Stelarc’s “Third Hand.”
Transcribed Gender and Sexuality in the Works of Nicole Eisenman’s “Procession” and John Currin’s “The Women of Franklin Street.”

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

The art of early civilizations is a testament to these societies’ creativity and cultural significance. Check out the best art topics for those interested in Ancient Rome, Mayan Culture, and African art.

Explore the Development of Primordial Egyptian Art and Its Impact on Later Art Forms.
The Significance of Art in Mesopotamian Civilization.
Explore the Relevance of Ancient Chinese Art and Its Influence on the Following Centuries.
Analyze the Evolution of Artworks in Old India and Their Relationship with Religion and Culture.
The Role of Art in Mayan Society and Its Significance in Their Spirituality and Habits.
The Development of Art in Mesoamerican Civilizations and Its Impact on Later Art Forms.
Analyze the Symbolism of Motifs in Ancient Art and Its Historical Context.

Art Research Topics on Different Cultures

Each culture has unique artistic expressions that reflect its history and social norms. By delving into the art of various cultures, we can gain insights into how art shapes and reflects human experiences and choose exciting art history research topics.

What Is the Role of Family and Community in Maori Art?
The Tradition of African Art and Mask Making and Its Role in Identity Formation.
Understanding the Symbolism and Meaning in Traditional Indian Textiles through the Colors of Culture.
The Evolution of Japanese Woodblock Prints from Edo to Meiji Era.
Try Looking for the Symbolism and Meaning in the Paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Other Examples of Eastern Art.
The Beauty of Symmetry: Geometry and Design in Islamic Art and Architecture.

Greek Art Research Paper Topics

Greek art is a rich and fascinating field of study that offers endless possibilities. Here is a list of art research paper topics exploring Greek artists’ diverse and complex world.

Examine the Development of Sculptures from the Archaic to the Hellenistic Period.
Analyze How Greek Artists Portrayed Gods, Goddesses, and Mythological Heroes.
How Did Ceramics’ Significance in Daily Life Shape Pottery’s Role in Ancient Greece?
Take an in Depth Look at the Use of Colour in Greek Sculpture, Painting, and Pottery.
The Influence of Egypt on Greek Art and How It Impacted the Development of the Current Identity.
Analyze How Women Were Represented and Their Role in Shaping the Cultural Context of the Time.
Develop the Topic on the Symbolism and Representation of Animals in Greek Art and Mythology.
Find Research Papers That Illustrate the Influence of Greece on Roman Art.

Art Topics during the Byzantine Period

Byzantine art illustrates the social context of that time, focusing on religious themes and having a close relationship between art and theology. Explore some of the most notable examples of Byzantine art, including mosaics and frescoes.

A Study of the Architectural and Artistic Achievements of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
Compare Your Personal Impressions on the Similarities and Differences between Byzantine Art and the Pieces Created during the Renaissance.
What Was the Importance of Ivory Triptychs in Byzantine Art?
To Understand Illumination, Research the Byzantine Manuscripts and Their Decorations.
Compare the Artistic Styles of the Byzantine Art and the Romanesque Period.
Learn More about the Revival of Classical Artistic Techniques in Byzantine Art.

Medieval Art History Research Paper Topics

Medieval art is characterized by intricate designs, elaborate ornamentation, and religious symbolism, reflecting the time’s beliefs. In writing a research paper on Medieval art history, choosing the right topic allows an in-depth exploration of various aspects of this period.

Examine the Development in the Representation of Religious Figures and Scenes in Medieval Artworks.
Analyze the Artistry and Significance of Illuminated Manuscripts in Europe.
Explore the Influence of Islamic Art on the Development of Medieval Paintings.
Examine the Meanings and Representation of Animals and Their Significance in That Time’s Worldview.
Deep Dive into the Techniques and Symbolism Used in Stained Glass Windows in Medieval Churches.

Renaissance Paper Topics

The Renaissance Era was a period of profound cultural rebirth that had a lasting impact on the development of Western art. New growing ideas started a revolution in paintings and sculptures that saw the emergence of new techniques and forms of expression.

Exploring the Ideals of Humanism and How They Were Reflected on Art at That Period.
Analyze the Revival of Classical Motifs and Themes in Renaissance Art.
Write about the Use of Perspective during the Renaissance Era and Its Impact on the Representation of Space and Depth.
Analyze How Women Were Represented in Art and Their Role in Shaping the Cultural Context of That Time.
Patronage System during Renaissance: Individual and Institutions Support of Art.
Examine the Rise of Artists-Genius, Such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo, and How Society Perceived Them.
Explore How Religious Themes Were Depicted in Renaissance Art.
Start an Analysis of the Use of Allegory in Renaissance Art and Its Meaning in the Cultural Context of the Time.

Research Paper Topics on the Baroque Era

The Baroque era is known for its dramatic and ornate style, intricate ornamentation, and bold colours. In the following topics, we will explore some research paper key concepts related to the Baroque era.

The Power of Light and Shade: A Study of Caravaggio’s Dramatic Use of Chiaroscuro.
Carry an in Depth Analysis of the Religious Context of Baroque Art Presented in Murals and Paintings.
The Triumph of Movement: An Analysis of Gian Lorenzo Bernini’s Sculpture and Its Dynamic Qualities.
Study Female Portrayals by Artemisia Gentileschi and Judith Leyster and Learn More about the Role of Women in the Baroque Era.
Baroque and Politics: The Relationship between Art and Power in 17th-Century Europe.
Develop an Article about Trompe-L’œIl Painting in Baroque Art and Discover the Power of Illusion.

The Impressionist Artistic Movement

Impressionism is an art movement that emphasizes capturing the transient effects of light and colour in the natural world. By exploring the following art research paper topics, we will gain a deeper understanding of the significance of impressionism and its ongoing legacy.

Understand Better the Concept of Time in Impressionist Paintings by Studying Some of Paul Cézanne’s Still Life.
What’s the Relevance of Weather in Impressionist Work, and What Can We Learn from It?
Discover the Importance of Motion in Impressionist Landscapes, According to Camille Pissarro.
What Was the Reception of Impressionism in America, and How It Impacted Local Artists?
Draw a Timeline of the Evolution of éDouard Manet’s Artistic Style.
The Role of Race and Ethnicity in Degas’ Art: A Comparative Study of His Depictions of Black and Asian Figures.

The Modern Art Talk about Romanticism

Romanticism is an interesting topic characterized by a fascination with emotion, nature, and the individual. By examining the art nuances of Romanticism, we can better understand the cultural and historical context in which these works were created and appreciate its enduring influence.

Evoking Awe and Terror in the Art of Caspar David Friedrich and J.M.W. Turner.
Learn more about the occult in the works of Samuel Taylor coleridge and William Blake.
Did the Portrayal of Femininity in the Works of Jane Austen, Eugène Delacroix, and William Blake Romanticize Women?
Explore Turner and Wordsworth’s responses to the Industrial Revolution.
Delacroix and the Impact of the French Revolution on the Romantic Movement.
How Did Wordsworth and Goethe Portray Childhood?

The Art Influence of Mannerism

The Mannerist period followed the High Renaissance and preceded the Baroque era. Its highlights include the works of artists such as Michelangelo and Tintoretto, who created some of the era’s most beautiful and thought-provoking pieces.

A Study of the Relationship between Artistic Style and Religious Change in Europe.
Find Out More about Innovative Techniques and Styles Used by Mannerist Portraitists.
Research about Michelangelo’s Influence on the Development of the Mannerist Style.
Write an Article about the Innovations Employed by the Painter Bronzino.
How Was the Relationship between Cellini and Michelangelo?
A Comparative Study of Female Portrayals by Sofonisba Anguissola and Lavinia Fontana.
Innovative Techniques Used by Mannerist Artists in Their Departure from Classical Tradition.

The Post-impressionist Art Movement

Post-impressionism was a reaction against the limitations of impressionism. They sought to expand the boundaries of art by exploring new techniques, emphasizing individual expression, and infusing their works with symbolic meaning.

Examine How Post-impressionist Painters Used Colour to Convey Emotion and Atmosphere.
The Evolution of Pointillism from Seurat to Pissarro and Van Gogh.
Discuss the Influence of Scientific Theories on the Development of Post-impressionist Painting Techniques.
The Influence of Music on Gauguin and Kandinsky’s Post-impressionist Works.
What Was the Legacy of Post-impressionism in the Paintings of Fauvists and Expressionists Such as Vlaminck and Nolde?

Surrealism in Art History

Surrealism sought to challenge the rationality and logic of Western thought, emphasizing the power of the unconscious mind. Surrealist artists sought to create works that blurred the lines between reality and fantasy.

Breaking Barriers and Boundaries: Feminist Critique of Surrealist Art.
How Did Surrealism Represent Sexuality and Desire in Its Artworks?
Dreams and the Unconscious: Surrealism’s Gateway to the Psyche.
What Was the Role of Surrealism in the Construction of Gender Identity?
From Art to Advertising: Surrealist Techniques in Marketing.
How Did Surrealism Represent the Non-human?

The Highlights of Cubism

Cubism is an art movement where Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque revolutionized traditional forms of representation by breaking down objects into geometric shapes. Here are some ideas of themes for your next art research paper regarding Cubism.

Study the Impacts of Cubist Paintings on American Artists Such as Stuart Davis and Charles Demuth.
The Role of Cubism in Modern Graphic Design: A Comparative Analysis of the Work of Cassandre and Moholy-Nagy.
The Relationship between Cubist Art and Literature and How It Influenced the Trajectory of James Joyce and Gertrude Stein.
A Comparative Study of the Depiction of Time in the Paintings of Picasso and Braque.
Find Out How Jazz and African Rhythms Influenced the Development of Cubism.

The Avant-garde Art Topics

The Avant-garde art movement pushed art boundaries, experimenting with new techniques, materials, and subject matter. In these topics, college students can explore the critical characteristics of this art style.

What Was the Role of Marcel Duchamp in Shaping the Avant-Garde Movement?
Learn More about Kazimir Malevich’s “Black Square” Significance in Avant-Garde Art.
How Did the Work of Francis Picabia Challenge Traditional Notions of Art and Beauty?
Examine the Impact of Futurism on Avant-Garde Art through the Creation of Umberto Boccioni.
Understand the Use of Technology in Avant-Garde Art through the Work of Nam June Paik.

The Expressionist Art Movement

Expressionist artists sought to convey intense emotions through their works, rejecting traditional forms of representation in favour of abstraction and distortion. This list will explore the critical characteristics of Expressionism, examining its cultural and historical context.

What Was the Influence of Expressionism on Abstract Art: From the Work of Rothko and Newman.
Nature in Expressionist Art: A Survey of the Creation of Emil Nolde and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner.
Deep Dive into German Expressionism’s Impact on Modern Art Development.
Expressionism and the Representation of War: A Comparative Analysis of Dix and Grosz’s Depictions of World War I.
Analyze How Religion Existed in the Expressionist Movement, Englobing Marc Chagall’s Work and Its Relationship to Mysticism.
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Topics on Dadaism

The Dadaist era was famous for its irreverent humour and rejection of logic and reason. By reviewing the Dadaist age, we can better understand how art can be used as a social and political critique.

A Study of the Use of Humor in the Work of Duchamp and Ernst during Dadaism.
How Was the National Identity Represented in Dadaism in the Work of Huelsenbeck and Grosz?
Trace the Dadaist Roots in the Cultural and Political Context of the Early 20th Century.
Analyze How Dadaists Turned Chance and Accident into Creative Tools.
Examine How Artists Used Collage and Photomontage to Challenge Traditional Notions of Art during Dadaism.
Trace the Journey of Francis Picabia’s Shifting Style in the Dada Movement.
Marcel Duchamp’s Readymades and the Subversive Legacy of Dadaism.

Pop Art Debate Topics

Pop Art is a visual arts movement that appropriated popular cultural imagery and techniques, challenging traditional fine art concepts. With their lasting influence, these art epochs are exciting topics for research papers for college students.

How Did Pop Art Reflect and Critique Consumer Culture and Consumerism?
Analyze the Art and Influence of Andy Warhol and How He Contributed to the Development of the Movement.
How Did Pop Art Appropriate and Recontextualize Advertising Imagery?
Examine How Female Artists Contributed to Pop Art and How They Challenged Traditional Gender Roles.
How Did Roy Lichtenstein Contribute to Developing Graphic Novel-Inspired Imagery in Pop Art?
Analyze How Pop Art Has Influenced and Been Influenced by Digital Media.

Art Education Research Topics in the 16th Century

Discover the Artistic Innovations of Bruegel, Bosch, and Dürer in the Northern Renaissance.
Why Was the Artistic Response to the Catholic Church’s Reforms Called Counter-Reformation Art?
Venetian Renaissance: The Colorful and Opulent Art of Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
Emphasize the Artistic Achievements of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals.
What Did the Spanish Golden Age Contribute through the Work of Velázquez, Murillo, and Zurbarán?
Understand Mannerist Architecture and Its Ornate and Playful Buildings of Italy’s Palladio, Vignola, and Scamozzi.
What Happened When Rococo’s Lavish and Ornamental Style Was Present in Boucher, Fragonard, and Watteau’s Work?

Cool Art Ideas during the 17th Century

The Realistic and Genre Scenes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals in Dutch Baroque.
The Theatrical Style of Poussin, Le Brun, and Lorrain of the Baroque Period in France.
Naturalistic Art in the Flemish Baroque of Rubens, Van Dyck, and Jordaens in Flanders.
The Emotive and Dramatic Style of Caravaggio, Bernini, and Borromini in the Italian Baroque.
The Revival of Classical Antiquity in European Art and Design through Neoclassicism.
The Mastery of Detail in the Dutch Still Life Paintings by Willem Kalf, Pieter Claesz, and Rachel Ruysch.
Illustrating the Contrast of Light and Dark in the Paintings of Velázquez and Zurbarán.
Flemish Still Life Painting: The Richness in the Works of Jan Davidsz de Heem, Clara Peeters, and Osias Beert.

Research Papers on Art Produced during the 18th Century

The Ornate and Playful Rococo Art by Watteau, Boucher, and Fragonard in France.
The Revival of Classical Antiquity in European Art, Architecture, and Design in the Rising of Neoclassicism.
Depictions of Natural Beauty by Gainsborough, Constable, and Turner in 18th-Century British Landscape Paintings.
The Development of a New Style in Portraiture, Landscape, and Still Life Painting in American Colonial Art.
Intricacy and Elegance of Porcelain, Jade, and Lacquer Ware Developed during the Qing Dynasty in China.
Discover Indian Miniature Painting through Its Colorful and Narrative Art of Mughal and Rajput Courts.
The Use of the Contrast of Light and Dark in the Spanish Baroque, Illustrated by the Works of Velázquez and Zurbarán.
Extravagant and Sensuous Italian Rococo Paintings by Tiepolo, Guardi, and Canaletto in Italy.

The 19th Century Artistic Styles

Understand the Depiction of Everyday Life and Social Issues through the Realism of Courbet, Millet, and Daumier.
The Curvilinear and Organic Designs of Art Nouveau in European Architecture and Decorative Arts.
Find Out What Is behind the Mystical Art of Moreau, Redon, and Klimt.
The Romantic and Medieval Style in Painting, Poetry, and Design in the Pre-raphaelite Period.
Study the Hudson River School and the Landscape Painting Movement Focusing on Cole, Church, and Bierstadt.
The Exotic and Colorful Japanese Woodblock Prints of Ukiyo-E, with Focus on Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Utamaro.
Academic Classicism Focused on the Preservation of Traditional Techniques, Emphasizing on Bouguereau, Gérôme, and Leighton.
The Bold and Vibrant Use of Color in Fauvism by Matisse, Derain, and Vlaminck.

The 20th Century’s Artistic Characteristics

The Breaking Down of Reality and Perception in Cubism by Pablo Picasso and Braque.
The Works of Munch, Kirchner, and Schiele Show the Emotion and Inner Feelings in Expressionism.
The Celebration of Technology, Movement, and Modernity through Futurism by Boccioni and Balla.
The Large-Scale and Gestural Art Movement by Jackson Pollock, Rothko, and de Kooning during Abstract Expressionism.
The Simplification and Reduction of Form in Minimalism, with Focus on Judd, Flavin, and Andre.
The Emphasis on Ideas over Aesthetics Inspired Conceptual Art Constructed by Kosuth, Weiner, and Acconci.
The Return to Figurative and Emotional Art in Neo-Expressionism with Focus on Basquiat, Schnabel, and Kiefer.

Contemporary Art History Topics

How the International Art Market Is Changing the Art Landscape through Globalization.
Examine the Continuing Impact of Pop Art on Contemporary Art Practices.
Explore the Relationship between Street Art and Mainstream Art Institutions.
How Are Artists Using Their Work to Address Race, Gender, and Sexuality?
Examine How Painters Incorporate New Technologies and Techniques into Their Work.
Analyze How Performance Art Challenges Traditional Notions of Art and Audience Participation.
Explore How Contemporary Artists Challenge the Status Quo and What Constitutes Art in the Last Centuries.

Mexican Revolutionary Art Research Paper Topics

The Mexican Revolution was a significant political change in Mexico. Revolutionary art emerged as a powerful tool for propaganda and expressed the hopes and aspirations of the Mexican people. These themes exemplify some of the most interesting paintings to write about.

Art Contribution to the Mexican Revolutionary Movement.
Analyze How Artists Portrayed Revolutionary Heroes Such as Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa.
Examine How Muralists Such as Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Jose Clemente Orozco Used Art to Promote Social Change.
Artists’ Representation of Indigenous People during the Revolutionary Period.
Explore How Mexican Revolutionary Art Has Influenced and Inspired Artists in Mexico and Beyond.

Architecture Research Paper Topics

An Analysis of Organic Forms and Materials in Santiago Calatrava’s Designs.
Write a Critical Analysis of Zaha Hadid’s Visionary Designs.
Examine How Shigeru Ban’s Designs Address Social and Environmental Challenges.
Build a Historical Overview of the Green Building Movement and Its Influence on Contemporary Architecture.
Analyze the Effects of Colonialism on the Built Environment of Former Colonies.

Theater Research Paper Ideas

Carry an Examination of the Role of Emotion and Empathy in Theater Performance.
Start a Comparative Study of Emerging Trends and Innovations in Contemporary Theater Production.
Analyzing the Legacy of Ancient Dramaturgy on Modern Performance.
What Are the Techniques and Styles of Julie Taymor and Her Impact on Modern Stagecraft?
The Political Satire of George Bernard Shaw: An Examination of His Use of Humor and Wit in Social Critique.

The Study of Photography as Research about Art

What Is the Relationship between Photography and Memory, and How Do Photographs Shape Our Perceptions of the Past?
How Did Modern Society Revolutionize the Use of Photography in Advertising, and What Are the Effects on Consumer Behaviour?
The Intersection of Photography and Architecture: How Photographers Capture the Urban Environment.
Discover the Role of War Photography in Documenting and Promoting Social Justice.
Analyze How Photos Can Be Used as a Tool for Scientific Research and New Technological Discoveries.
The Rise of Digital Photography and Its Effects on the Field.
Explore How Photographers Portray and Challenge Traditional Gender Roles and Identities in Contemporary Photography.

Artist Biography Ideas

Vincent Van Gogh: The Tragic Life of a Misunderstood Artist.
A Biography of the Groundbreaking American Impressionist Painter, Mary Cassatt.
Diego Rivera: The Life and Work of the Revolutionary Mexican Muralist.
Learn More about the History and Art of the Bold and Trailblazing Baroque Painter Artemisia Gentileschi.
AI Weiwei: The Activism of the Contemporary Chinese Artist and Dissident.
The Artistic Legacy of Gustav Klimt, the Austrian Symbolist Painter.
Frida Kahlo: The Work of the Iconic Mexican Surrealist Artist.
What Are the Most Interesting Parts of the American Neo-Expressionist Painter Jean-Michel Basquiat Journey?

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Art Topics Ideas Base on the Artists of the 18th Century

Explore the Satirical Art of the British Painter and Printmaker William Hogarth.
How Was the Life of Rococo and French Artist Jean-Honoré Fragonard?
Thomas Gainsborough: The Artistic Legacy of the English Portrait Painter.
What Were the Achievements of the Swiss-English Neoclassical Artist Angelica Kauffman?
Understand How the French Revolution Was Seen through the Artistic Vision of the Painter Jacques-Louis David.
The Hidden Meanings behind the English Portrait Painter Joshua Reynolds.
What Was the Artistic Legacy of the Pioneering French Portrait Painter éLisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun?

Artists of the 19th Century

Gustave Courbet: The Artistic Vision of the French Realist Painter.
The Sculptures of Auguste Rodin and His Legacy in 19th-Century France.
What Were the Artistic Achievements of the American Portrait Painter John Singer Sargent?
Get a Grasp of the Legacy of One of the Most Iconic French Modernist Painters, éDouard Manet.
How Was Impressionism Present in the Body of Work from French Impressionist Painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir?
Mary Cassatt: The Artistic Contributions of the American Impressionist Painter.
Find Out More about the History behind the Evolution of the French Post-impressionist Painter Paul Gauguin.

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333 Art Research Paper Topics & Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Art research paper topics cover a fascinating field, where numerous themes range from the study of specific artistic movements, periods, and styles to investigations into the socio-political context of art, including the use of new technologies in contemporary artistic practices. Various topics may explore the complexities of abstract expressionism, the intricacies of Renaissance art, or the cultural implications of street art. People may delve into the controversial world of art forgery, the influence of digital media on traditional art, or the role of women in the art world. Art from non-Western traditions, such as African or Asian art, offers many research possibilities. Moreover, cross-disciplinary subjects, like psychology of art, art therapy, or art in education, hold a valid potential. With such a broad study spectrum, art research paper topics provide a rich canvas for exploration, enabling scholars to gain a deeper understanding of human expression across cultures and throughout history.

Simple Art Research Paper Topics

Understanding Pointillism and Its Influence
Modernist Art: An Overview
Impressionism: Capturing Light and Moment
The Power of Portraiture in Art
A Glimpse Into the World of Sculpture
Unraveling the Intricacies of Calligraphy
Street Art: A Modern Phenomenon
Pop Art: Its Definition and Key Figures
Exploring the Art of Collage
Cubism: Breaking Down Traditional Forms
Oil Painting Techniques Throughout History
Watercolor: An Art Form Through the Ages
Frescoes: A Brief History and Technique
Art Nouveau: Characteristics and Key Artists
Expressionism: An Emotional Art Form
Exploration of Abstract Art Concepts
Art of Caricature: Humor in Visual Form
Artistic Influence of Surrealism
Graffiti: Street Art or Vandalism?

Interesting Art Research Paper Topics

Minimalism: The Power of Simplicity in Art
Fashion Illustration: A Creative Dialogue
Animation: Art in Motion
Exploring the Styles of Japanese Manga Art
Artificial Intelligence in the World of Art Creation
Film: Visual Storytelling as an Art
Analyzing the Use of Metaphors in Visual Art
Unraveling the Mysteries of Symbolism in Art
Digital Art: The Impact of Technology on Creativity
Psychedelic Art: A Window Into the Subconscious Mind
Mural Art and Community Expression
Emotional Response Triggered by Abstract Expressionism
Cultural Differences Reflected in Indigenous Art
Art Therapy: Healing Through Creation
Video Game Design: Art, Aesthetics, and Interaction
Body Art and Tattoos: A Cultural Perspective
Exploration of Artistic Activism
Art Market: Valuing Creativity and Aesthetics
Comparison of Eastern and Western Art Styles

Modern Art Research Topics

Decoding Cubism: Understanding Picasso and Braque
Surrealism: An Investigation Into the World of Dreams
Expressionism: Manifestation of Emotions in Modern Art
Analyzing Futurism: Speed, Technology and the Modern World
Exploring Dadaism: A Reaction to World War I
Conceptual Art: Ideas Over Aesthetics
Postmodern Art: Challenging Modernist Authority
Cybernetic Art: Intersection of Art and Technology
Street Art: An Unconventional Modern Canvas
Visual Culture and Gender in Modern Art
Digital Media’s Influence on Contemporary Art Practices
Art Installations: An Environment-Based Interpretation of Modern Art
Transformative Aspects of Performance Art
Appropriation in the Postmodern Art
Bauhaus Movement: Revolutionizing Art and Design
Abstract Expressionism: Freedom in Large-Scale Canvas
Study of Neo-Dada and Its Reflection on Society
Hyperrealism: The Imitation Game in Modern Art
Understanding the Pop Art Movement
Exploration of Minimalism: Art in Reduction

Art Research Topics on Ancient Civilizations

Egyptian Art: Symbolism and the Afterlife
Influence of Art on the Mayan Civilization
Decoding Symbols in Aztec Art
Analysis of Frescoes in Ancient Crete
Sculptural Art of the Ancient Greeks
Artistic Representation in Roman Architecture
Aesthetic Principles of Persian Art
Art in the Indus Valley Civilization
Carving Traditions in Ancient Polynesia
Unraveling the Art of the Ancient Incas
Exploring the Artistic Styles of Ancient Mesopotamia
Bronze Age Art in Scandinavia
Hellenistic Influence on Roman Art
Visual Narratives in Chinese Tomb Art
Art and Hieroglyphics in Ancient Egypt
Religious Influence on Byzantine Mosaics
Depiction of Gods in Ancient Hindu Art
Iconography in Ancient Celtic Art
Minoan Culture: Art and Archaeology

Artist Biography Research Topics

Vincent Van Gogh: A Life in Art
Artistic Vision of Leonardo da Vinci
Pablo Picasso: Cubism and Beyond
Exploration of Frida Kahlo’s Works
Salvador Dali: Surrealism Personified
Career Analysis of Rembrandt van Rijn
Personal Experiences in Georgia O’Keeffe’s Art
M.C. Escher: Master of Impossible Spaces
Depictions of Reality in Caravaggio’s Works
Life and Art of Claude Monet
Henri Matisse: The Joy of Fauvism
Artistic Innovations of Wassily Kandinsky
El Greco: Fusion of Byzantine and Western Art
Unraveling the Mysteries of Bosch’s Paintings
Paul Gauguin: From Paris to Tahiti
Exploring the Abstract Universe of Jackson Pollock
Journey through the Impressionism of Renoir
Analysis of Edward Hopper’s American Realism
Michelangelo’s Contribution to the Renaissance Art
The Life and Art of Auguste Rodin

Art Research Topics in Different Epochs

Baroque Art: Drama and Grandeur
Defining Characteristics of Romanticism in Art
Gothic Art: From Architecture to Illuminated Manuscripts
Byzantine Art and Its Cultural Significance
Transition Into Renaissance: A Shift in Artistic Style
Exploring Mannerism: Between Renaissance and Baroque
Art Deco: Elegance and Technological Progress
Impressionism: More than Light and Momentary Impressions
Abstract Expressionism: Freedom of Expression in Art
Fauvism: Bold Colors and Simplified Designs
Cubism: Changing Perspectives in Art
Surrealism: Unleashing the Power of the Unconscious
Art Nouveau: Nature in the Urban Environment
Pop Art: The Intersection of Art and Popular Culture
Neoclassicism: Rebirth of Ancient Traditions
Dada: An Art Movement of Protest
Expressionism: Emotions Over Realistic Representation
Futurism: Embracing the Energy of the Future
Post-Impressionism: Beyond the Limitations
Art of the Middle Ages: A Spiritual Journey

Compelling Renaissance Art Research Topics

Da Vinci’s Innovations in Art and Science
Botticelli and the Visual Interpretation of Mythology
Michelangelo’s Sculptures: Unraveling the Human Form
Portrayal of Women in Renaissance Art
Patronage System and Its Influence on Renaissance Art
Influence of Humanism on Renaissance Art
Differences in Northern and Italian Renaissance Art
Iconography in the Work of Hieronymus Bosch
Religious Themes in Renaissance Art
Exploring Perspective in the Paintings of Masaccio
Contrasting the Early and High Renaissance
Titian’s Contribution to Venetian Renaissance Art
Anatomy in Art: Lessons from Leonardo da Vinci
Understanding Raphael’s Use of Composition
Interpreting Allegory in Renaissance Art
The Architecture of the Renaissance: Brunelleschi’s Innovations
Renaissance Artistic Techniques: Chiaroscuro and Sfumato
El Greco’s Unique Approach in the Late Renaissance
Petrarch’s Influence on Renaissance Artists

Fascinating Photography in Art Research Topics

Pictorialism: Bridging Painting and Photography
Candid Street Photography: Reflections of Urban Life
Ansel Adams and the Majesty of Nature
History of Photojournalism: Truth in Images
Understanding Photomontage: From Dada to Today
Andy Warhol’s Use of Photography in Art
Diane Arbus: Confronting Norms Through Portraiture
War Photography: Documenting Humanity’s Dark Side
Evolution of Fashion Photography
Cinematic Aesthetics in Contemporary Photography
Study of Abstract Photography
Cindy Sherman and the Art of Self-Portraiture
HDR Photography: Artistic Merits and Criticisms
Photography’s Role in Constructing Identity
Exploring Ethereal Quality in Surrealist Photography
Vivian Maier: The Mystery of the Nanny Photographer
Exploring the Ethnographic Photography of Edward Curtis
Magnum Photos: Power of Collective Photography
Color Theory in Photography

Art Research Topics in Architecture

Gothic Architecture: Symbolism and Interpretation
Modernism in Architectural Design: Case Studies
Sustainable Architecture: Ecological Design Principles
Neoclassical Structures: Harmony and Order
Frank Lloyd Wright and the Concept of Organic Architecture
Brutalist Architecture: Power and Materiality
Architectural Marvels of Ancient Rome
Islamic Architecture: Geometric Patterns and Spiritual Symbolism
Deconstructivism: Challenging Traditional Architecture
Feng Shui Principles in Eastern Architecture
Revival Architectural Styles: Romanticism and Identity
Digital Architecture: Advances and Implications
Critical Regionalism: Adapting Modernism to Local Contexts
Bauhaus Movement: Intersection of Art, Craft, and Technology
Architectural Acoustics: Sound Design in Concert Halls
Sacred Spaces: Religious Influence on Architecture
Adaptive Reuse in Architecture: Redefining Existing Structures
Biomimicry in Architecture: Inspiration From Nature
Futurist Architecture: Imagining the City of Tomorrow
Art Nouveau Architecture: Organic Forms and Decorative Detailing

Art Research Topics About Theater

Elizabethan Theater: Innovation and Influence
Brechtian Theatre: Alienation Effect and Its Significance
Musical Theatre: Fusion of Art Forms
Greek Tragedy: Power and Catharsis
Commedia Dell’arte: Improvisation and Character Masks
Kabuki Theatre: Cultural Symbolism in Japan
Shakespearean Plays: Intricate Character Analysis
Modernist Theatre: Interpretation and Vision
Noh Theatre: Minimalist Aesthetics and Spirituality
Symbolism in French Theater: Maeterlinck and Claudel
Realism in Ibsen’s Theater: Social Critique
Absurdist Drama: Beckett, Ionesco, and Pinter
Ancient Roman Theater: Performance and Spectacle
Black Theater Movement: Social Change and Expression
Postmodern Performance: Hybridity and Intertextuality
Theater of the Oppressed: Augusto Boal’s Revolutionary Technique
Puppet Theater: Artistry Beyond Actors
Theater Criticism: Methods and Perspectives
Contemporary Immersive Theater: Audience Participation

Art Research Topics for Different Cultures

African Art: Aesthetics and Meaning in Yoruba Sculpture
Japanese Art: Wabi-Sabi and the Beauty of Imperfection
Australian Indigenous Art: Symbols and Dreamtime Stories
Russian Avant-Garde: Transformation of Artistic Language
Middle Eastern Islamic Art: Geometry and Calligraphy
Native American Art: Symbolism and Spiritual Traditions
Cuban Art: Politics and Expression after the Revolution
Chinese Art: Brushwork in Traditional Ink Painting
Mexican Muralism: Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros
South Asian Art: The Divine in Hindu Iconography
Greek Art: Harmony and Proportions in Classical Sculpture
Polynesian Art: Tattoos and Cultural Identity
Art of Ancient Egypt: Ritual and the Afterlife
Korean Art: Celadon Ceramics and Buddhist Influence
European Medieval Art: Illuminated Manuscripts
Art of the Inuit: Life and Mythology in Sculpture
Brazilian Graffiti: Street Art as Political Commentary
Art of the Maori: Carving, Weaving, and Tattooing
Byzantine Art: Icons and Mosaics in Christian Worship
Modern Persian Art: Negotiating Tradition and Modernity

Art History Research Paper Topics

Artistic Paradigms in Late Antiquity: A Shift towards Christianity
Baroque Art: Caravaggio’s Naturalism and Dramatic Lighting
Impressionism: Monet’s En Plein Air Technique
Surrealism: Dali’s Dreamscapes and the Subconscious Mind
Postmodernism: Koons and the Commodification of Art
Abstract Expressionism: Pollock’s Action Painting
Cubism: Picasso’s Deconstruction of Form
Renaissance Humanism: Anatomy in Leonardo’s Drawings
Romanticism: Turner’s Sublime Landscapes
Neoclassicism: David’s Use of Greco-Roman Themes
Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: Rejection of Industrial Age Aesthetics
Art Nouveau: Mucha and the Integration of Art and Life
Fauvism: Matisse’s Bold Use of Color
German Expressionism: Kirchner’s Response to Urbanization
Dadaism: Duchamp’s Readymades and the Challenge to Artistic Convention
Pop Art: Warhol’s Reflections on Consumer Culture
Gothic Architecture: Chartres Cathedral’s Stained Glass
Arts and Crafts Movement: Morris’s Return to Handicrafts
Futurism: Boccioni’s Dynamism and the Machine Age

Art Therapy Research Topics

Art Therapy in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Creative Approach
Artistic Expression as a Coping Mechanism for Trauma Survivors
Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Art Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Art Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
Integrating Mindfulness Techniques in Art Therapy
Art Therapy in Pediatric Oncology: Aiding Expression and Understanding
Clinical Art Therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Art Therapy Interventions for Individuals with Schizophrenia
Artistic Creation as a Medium for Self-Expression in Depression
Group Art Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment
Phototherapy: Exploring Personal Narratives through Photography
Art Therapy and Neurological Rehabilitation: A Stroke Case Study
Utilizing Art Therapy in Grief Counseling
Art Therapy as a Modality in the Treatment of Eating Disorders
Clinical Assessment through Art Therapy: Indicators and Interpretations
Sand Tray Therapy: A Nonverbal Therapeutic Approach
Expressive Art Therapy in Palliative Care: Enhancing Quality of Life
Biblio-Art Therapy: Integrating Literature in Therapeutic Practice
Virtual Reality and Art Therapy: Exploring New Horizons
Holistic Healing: Integrating Yoga and Art Therapy

Pop Art Research Topics

Andy Warhol: King of Pop Art
Consumerism in Pop Art: A Critical Analysis
Exploring Roy Lichtenstein’s Comic Strip Aesthetics
Pop Art and Its Reflection on Post-War Culture
Influence of Media and Advertising on Pop Art
Cultural Shifts Reflected in 1960s Pop Art
Pop Art and Its Interpretation of Femininity: Analysis of Works
Exploring Pop Art’s Impact on Fashion
British Pop Art: Distinct Features and Notable Artists
From Collage to Canvas: Techniques of Pop Art
How Pop Art Challenged Traditional Fine Art Values
Japanese Pop Art: Influence of Manga and Anime
Pop Art and Political Commentary: Works of Richard Hamilton
The Use of Irony and Parody in Pop Art
Crossover between Pop Art and Minimalism
Pop Art’s Influence on Music: Album Cover Designs
A Closer Look at Keith Haring’s Subway Drawings
Ed Ruscha and Pop Art Typography
Understanding Claes Oldenburg’s Soft Sculptures in Pop Art
Pop Art’s Impact on Modern and Contemporary Art

Visual Art Research Topics

Decoding Symbols in Medieval Visual Art
Concepts of Beauty in Renaissance Visual Art
Impressionism: Capturing the Moment in Visual Art
Street Art: Vandalism or Visual Culture?
Understanding Abstract Expressionism in Visual Art
Color Theory in Visual Art: A Comprehensive Study
Art Nouveau and its Influence on Visual Art
Depictions of War in Visual Art
Examining Surrealism in Visual Art
Cubism: Changing Perspectives in Visual Art
Visual Art in Advertising: An Analysis
Contemporary Visual Art: Trends and Techniques
Sculpture: 3D Perspectives in Visual Art
Depictions of Mythology in Visual Art
Bauhaus Movement and its Influence on Visual Art
Visual Art as a Tool for Social Commentary
Futurism: Anticipating the Future in Visual Art
Exploring Romanticism in Visual Art
Religious Iconography in Byzantine Visual Art

Classical Greek Art Research Topics

Classical Greek Sculpture: Aesthetic Analysis
Iconography in Classical Greek Vase Painting
Architectural Innovations of Classical Greek Temples
Classical Greek Art in the Context of Democracy
Mythology Depictions in Classical Greek Art
Mosaics and Frescoes: Detailed Examination of Classical Greek Mediums
Development of Human Figure Representation in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Theatre: An Artistic Perspective
Artistic Techniques Used in Classical Greek Coin Design
Classical Greek Art: An Inquiry Into Cultural Exchange
Metopes and Friezes: Sculptural Elements of Classical Greek Architecture
Gender Portrayal in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Art: Exploring Burial Customs
Artistic Conventions of Classical Greek Pottery
Aesthetic Values in Classical Greek Art: Detailed Analysis
Exploration of Classical Greek Military Art
Deciphering Messages in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Art: Analyzing Patterns and Motifs
Reflection of Philosophy in Classical Greek Art
Pediment Sculpture in Classical Greek Architecture

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180 Art Research Topics To Wake Your Inner Creator Up

We know, finding great art research topics can be a pretty difficult thing to do nowadays. Your classmates are all scouring the Internet in search of easy – but interesting – topics. The last thing you want is to pick a topic that has already been chosen. You want to be original. You want your professor to notice the effort you’ve put into finding the perfect topic. This is why you should take a look at our list of art research topics. All of them are original and interesting. And, best of all, the list is updated and new topics are added periodically.

Writing a Proper Art Research Paper

Writing a research paper on a topic in painting, sculpture, literature, architecture, cinema, music, or theater can be tricky if you don’t have much experience. To come to your aid, we have included a short list of tips that should help you write the best possible art research paper as quickly as possible:

Obviously, you need to find an engaging topic for your paper Spend some time on crafting the thesis statement (it’s very important) Only use information from authoritative sources that you can check Make sure all citations and references are properly formatted It pays to start your writing project with an outline Stay organized and follow the outline until you finish the paper Don’t forget to edit your work and then proofread it thoroughly Finally, don’t forget that you can get professional academic writing help, if necessary

In this blog post, we will help you with a list of 180 original art research topics for your next paper. The topics, organized in 20 categories, can be found below and are 100% free. Furthermore, if you have more important things to do, rather than going through that long and boring process, you can pay someone to write a paper and feel free to spend your time as you wish.

Brand New Art Topics for Research Papers

Below, you can find our brand new art topics for research papers. All of these topics have been recently added and we think that all of them should work great in 2023:

Compare 2 major themes of art
Discuss the adversity theme in art
Is digital 3D motion graphic design an art?
Discuss artistic styles in modern art
An in-depth look at digital art
Social media in 2023 art
Talk about the popularity of art fairs
Should you become an art historian?
Peculiarities of abstract art of the 21st century
Talk about Cubism influences in art
What is mixed media art?

Artist Research Paper Ideas

Would you like to talk about artists? No problem, we’ve got an entire list of artist research paper ideas for you right here. Choose the best one and start writing in minutes:

The life and work of Jean-Michel Basquiat
The importance of Peter Doig’s work
Modern paintings by Christopher Wool
Influences in Rudolf Stingel’s art
An in-depth look at Salvador Dali’s work
The neo-Pop movement (Yoshitomo Nara)
Richard Prince’s use of mass-media images in art
The instability of life in Zeng Fanzhi’s paintings
The life and work of Frida Kahlo
Andy Warhol’s rise in popularity
Discuss the themes in Vincent van Gogh’s work
The importance of Jackson Pollock for modern art

Art History Research Paper Topics

If you want to talk about art history, you will be thrilled to learn that we are offering a list of art history research paper topics for free. Check out the latest version of the topics list:

Imagery and symbolism in Carlo Crivelli’s work
Talk about evolution and devolution in Willem de Kooning’s work
An in-depth look at Chinese art
The 3 most important architecture themes
Talk about the portrayal of war in contemporary art
The most important literary works of the 20th century
European art during Medieval times
The importance of prehistoric art in Mesopotamia

Art Topics to Write About in High School

Are you looking for some art topics to write about in high school? Don’t worry about it; we’ve got your back. We have a whole list of topics dedicated to high school students right here:

Talk about the use of symbols in Egyptian art
Discuss Mayan architecture
An in-depth look at Chinese ancient paintings
Light in Claude Monet’s work
Talk about the peculiarities of Romanticism
Discuss the Surrealism movement
The importance of the Sistine Chapel paintings
A closer look at the Harlem Renaissance

Most Interesting Art Topics

We know you want to write a paper on something interesting. After all, you probably want to impress your professor, don’t you? Here are our most interesting art topics:

Discuss peculiarities of Iranian cinema movies
Talk about Hindi architecture
Best Chinese novels ever written
Artistic similarities between the US and Canada
Talk about a famous painter in the United Kingdom
The ascendance motif in Raphael’s work
Talk about feminism in contemporary art
Japanese motifs in Claude Monet’s paintings

Advanced Art Topics

We are most certain that your professor will appreciate the effort if you choose to write your paper on a more complex topic. Here are some advanced art topics you could try:

The emergence of urban street art
Cubism in Pablo Picasso paintings
The life and works of Louise Bourgeois
Talk about the influence of the paranormal on art
An in-depth look at Aztec religious art
Talk about a primeval music instrument of your choice
Talk about sculpture in Ancient Rome
Discuss the use of art for propaganda means

Fun Art Topic Ideas

Who said writing a research paper about art can’t be fun? It all depends on the topic you choose. To help you out, we have compiled a list of fun art topic ideas. Check it out below:

Depictions of extraterrestrials in art
Using art during the war
3 most creative uses of paintings
Talk about the emergence of NFT art
Interesting traits of the Bauhaus movement
Sculptures that make you laugh
Interesting depictions of the human anatomy
The most famous graffiti in the United States

Art Topics Good for College Students

Of course we have many art topics that are good for college students. Our experts have recently finished updating the list of ideas, so go ahead and choose the one you like the most:

Analyze the Surrealism period
Postmodernism in 2023 art
The life and work of Auguste Renoir
Talk about French caricatures
The benefits of art therapy
Hitler and his contribution to arts
War dances in the Maori society

Controversial Art Topics to Write About

M any students find writing a research paper challenging. There are many controversial topics in art that you can talk about in a research paper. Take a look at some of the most controversial art topics to write about and take your pick:

Discuss The Last Judgement by Michelangelo
The controversies surrounding Marcel Duchamp
Graffiti: vandalism or art?
Why is art so controversial?
What makes a drawing a piece of art?
Architecture: art or utility?

Easy Topics for Art Papers

If you want to spend as little time as possible writing the research paper, you need an easier topic. Fortunately for you, our experts have compiled a list of easy topics for art papers right here:

Types of Chinese jewelry
Analyze art in South Korea
The first recorded music instrument
Discuss a novel of your choice
Talk about Venetian carnival masks
The life and works of Giuseppe Verdi
Compare and contrast 3 war dances
American Indian art over the years
An in-depth look at totem masks
Art in sub-Saharan Africa
Talk about art in North Korea

Modern/Contemporary Art History Topics

Yes, we really do have a list of the best modern/contemporary art history topics. As usual, you can choose any of our topics and even reword it without giving us any credit. Take your pick:

Talk about 5 artistic styles in modern art
Talk about activism and art
Discuss the role of political cartoons
The role of digital art in 2023
Is printmaking really an art?
Discuss the theme of identity politics
Political critique through the use of art
Most interesting works of contemporary art

Ancient Art Topics

Do you want to talk about ancient art? It’s not a simple subject, but we’re certain you will manage just fine. Check out our latest list of ancient art topics and select the one you like the most:

Analyze the El Castillo Cave Paintings
Ancient art in India
An in-depth look at the Diepkloof Eggshell Engravings
Ancient art in Persia
Why is ancient art so important?
Ancient art in China
What makes ancient art unique?

Ideas for an Art Research Project

Did your teacher ask you to come up with an idea for an art research project? Don’t worry about it too much because we have plenty of ideas for an art research project right here:

Research 3 Kpop artists and their work
Uncover signs of prehistoric art in your area
Make a rain painting on your own
Design a Zen garden in your backyard
Make a 3D sculpture on your computer
Make a wall mural for your school
Experiment with pin art
Experiment with sand art

Fine Arts Research Paper Topics

If you would prefer to write about the fine arts, you have definitely arrived at the right place. We have a long list of interesting fine arts research paper topics below:

Is drawing a form of art?
An in-depth analysis of the Mona Lisa
The Girls with a Pearl Earring painting
An in-depth analysis of Venus of Willendorf
A closer look at the Terracotta Army
Discuss a piece of abstract architecture
A closer look at the Burj Khalifa architecture
Discuss Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats

Renaissance Art Topics

Did you know that our Renaissance art topics have been used by more than 500 students to date? This is a clear indication that our ideas are some of the best on the Web:

Talk about the Linear perspective in Renaissance art
Discuss the altarpieces found in Renaissance art
An in-depth look at anatomy in Renaissance art
Discuss the Fresco cycles
Talk about the peculiarities of the landscape
Influences of Realism in Renaissance art
Analyze the use of light in Renaissance art
Discuss the humanism theme
Talk about the individualism theme in Renaissance art

The Best Baroque Art Topics

We can assure you that you teacher will greatly appreciate it if you choose one of these Baroque topics. Remember, this is the place where you can find the best Baroque art topics:

Discuss the Grandeur theme in Baroque art
An in-depth look at the sensuous richness theme
Talk about the importance of religious paintings
Talk about the emotional exuberance theme
Allegories in Baroque art
The life and works of Annibale Carracci
The life and works of Nicolas Poussin

Art Debate Topics

Are you planning an art debate? If you are, you most definitely need some great art debate topics to choose from. Talk to your team and propose them any of these awesome ideas:

Do artists need talent to sculpt?
The best painter in the world today
Can graffiti be considered a form of art?
The best sculpture ever made
Can we consider dance a form of art?
The best painting ever made
Should we study arts in school?
The best literary work ever written
Why is Banksy’s work so controversial?
The best singer of all time
How can photographs be considered works of art?

Artist Biography Topics

Our experts have put together a list of the most intriguing artist biography topics for you. You should be able to find more than enough information about each artist on the Internet:

Talk about the life of Michael Jackson
Discuss the works of Leonardo da Vinci
Discuss the importance of Elvis Presley’s work
The life and works of Rembrandt
The importance of Ernest Hemingway’s masterpieces
The importance of Michelangelo’s paintings
Talk about the life of Vincent van Gogh
Auguste Rodin’s sculptures
The life and works of Donatello
The life and works of Leo Tolstoy
Discuss Jane Austen’s literary works

Art Therapy Topics

Choosing one of our captivating art therapy topics will definitely get your research paper noticed. This is a field that has been growing in popularity for years. Check out our latest ideas:

The importance of photography in art therapy
Reducing pain through art therapy
Art therapy for PTST patients
Art therapy against the stress of the modern world
Improving the quality of life through art therapy
Positive health effects of finger painting
The effects of art therapy on 3 mental health disorders
The effects of art therapy on autism
Art therapy and psychotherapy
The job of an art therapist
Benefits of art therapy for mental health

Art Epochs Paper Topics

If you want to write your paper on one of the many art epochs, you could give our art epochs paper topics a try. You should find plenty of great ideas in the list below:

The legacy of the Romanesque period
The importance of the Romanticism movement
Talk about the Mannerism movement
Discuss The New Objectivity movement
Pop-art in the 21st century
An in-depth look at abstract impressionism
The importance of the Gothic Era
Talk about the Classicist movement
Peculiarities of Cubism art
What is Futurism in art?
Discuss the great artists of the Baroque era
Interesting facts about the Rococo period
The Art Nouveau era

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Article contents

Arts-based research.

Janinka Greenwood Janinka Greenwood University of Canterbury
https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780190264093.013.29
Published online: 25 February 2019

Arts-based research encompasses a range of research approaches and strategies that utilize one or more of the arts in investigation. Such approaches have evolved from understandings that life and experiences of the world are multifaceted, and that art offers ways of knowing the world that involve sensory perceptions and emotion as well as intellectual responses. Researchers have used arts for various stages of research. It may be to collect or create data, to interpret or analyze it, to present their findings, or some combination of these. Sometimes arts-based research is used to investigate art making or teaching in or through the arts. Sometimes it is used to explore issues in the wider social sciences. The field is a constantly evolving one, and researchers have evolved diverse ways of using the communicative and interpretative tools that processes with the arts allow. These include ways to initially bypass the need for verbal expression, to explore problems in physically embodied as well as discursive ways, to capture and express ambiguities, liminalities, and complexities, to collaborate in the refining of ideas, to transform audience perceptions, and to create surprise and engage audiences emotionally as well as critically. A common feature within the wide range of approaches is that they involve aesthetic responses.

The richness of the opportunities created by the use of arts in conducting and/or reporting research brings accompanying challenges. Among these are the political as well as the epistemological expectations placed on research, the need for audiences of research, and perhaps participants in research, to evolve ways of critically assessing the affect of as well as the information in presentations, the need to develop relevant and useful strategies for peer review of the research as well as the art, and the need to evolve ethical awareness that is consistent with the intentions and power of the arts.

multisensory
performance

Introduction

The term arts-based research is an umbrella term that covers an eclectic array of methodological and epistemological approaches. The key elements that unify this diverse body of work are: it is research; and one or more art forms or processes are involved in the doing of the research. How art is involved varies enormously. It has been used as one of several tools to elicit information (Cremin, Mason, & Busher, 2011 ; Gauntlett, 2007 ; Wang & Burns, 1997 ) and for the analysis of data (Boal, 1979 ; Gallagher, 2014 ; Neilson, 2008 ), and so it serves as an enrichment to the palette of tools used in qualitative research. It has been used in the presentation of findings (Bagley & Cancienne, 2002 ; Conrad, 2012 ; Gray & Sinding, 2002 ) and so occupies a space that could be responded to and evaluated as both art and research. It has been used to investigate art and the process of art-making. The emergence of the concept and practice of a/r/tography (Belliveau, 2015 ; Irwin, 2013 ; Springgay, Irwin, & Kind, 2005 ), for example, places art-making and its textual interpretation in a dynamic relationship of inquiry into the purpose, process, and meaning of the making of an artwork.

The field is multifaceted and elusive of definition and encompassing explanation. This article does not attempt such definitions. But it does risk describing some well-trodden pathways through the field and posing some questions. Illustrative examples are offered from the author’s work, as well as citing of works by other researchers who use arts-based approaches.

My own explorations of arts-based research began many years ago, before the term came into usage. I was commissioned to develop a touring play for a New Zealand youth theater, and I chose to write a docudrama, Broadwood: Na wai te reo? (Greenwood, 1995 ). The play reported the case of a remote, rural, and predominantly Maori school that made Maori language a compulsory subject in its curriculum. The parents of one boy argued against the decision, claiming the language held no use for their son. The dispute was aired on national television and was debated in parliament. The minister agreed that the local school board had the right to make the decision after consultation with parents and community. The dispute ended with the boy being given permission to do extra math assignments in the library during Maori language classes. To develop the script, I interviewed all the local participants in the case and sincerely sought to capture the integrity of their views in my dialogue. I accessed the minister of education’s comments through public documents and media and reserved the right to occasionally satirize them. Just a week or two before final production, the family’s lawyer officially asked for a copy of the script. To my relief, it was returned with the comment that the family felt I had captured their views quite accurately. The youth theater was invited to hold its final rehearsal on the local marae (a traditional tribal Maori ground that holds a meeting house and hosts significant community occasions), and a local elder offered the use of an ancestral whalebone weapon in the opening performance, instead of the wooden one made for the production. The opening performance took place in the school itself, and the boy, together with his parents and family friends, sat in the audience together with hundreds of community people. The play had an interactive section where the audience was asked to vote in response to a survey the school had originally sent out to its community. The majority of the audience voted for Maori language to be part of the mandatory curriculum. The boy and his family voted equally emphatically for it not to be. The play then toured in New Zealand and was taken to a festival in Australia.

At the time I saw the work purely in terms of theater—albeit with a strongly critical social function. Looking back, I now see it was a performative case study. I had carefully researched the context and respectfully interviewed participants after gaining their informed consent. The participants had all endorsed my reporting of the data. The findings were disseminated and subject to popular as well as peer review. The performances added an extra dimension to the research: they actively invited audience consideration and debate.

This article discusses the epistemology that underlies arts-based approaches to research, reviews the purposes and value of research that involves the arts, identifies different stages and ways that art may be utilized, and addresses questions that are debated in the field. It does not seek to disentangle all the threads within this approach to research or to review all key theorizations and possibilities in the field. The arena of arts-based research is a diverse and rapidly expanding one, and it is only possible within this discussion to identify some of the common underlying characteristics and potentialities and to offer selected examples. Because this discussion is shaped within an essay format, rather than through a visual or performative collage, there is the risk of marking a limited number of pathways and of making assertions. At the same time, I acknowledge that the discussion might have alternatively been conducted through arts-based media, which might better reflect some of the liminalities and interweaving layers of art-based processes (see further, Greenwood, 2016 ).

The term art itself compasses a wide and diverse spectrum of products and process. This article focuses particularly on dramatic and visual art, while acknowledging that the use of other art forms, such as poetry, fiction, dance, film, and fabric work, have been variously used in processes of investigation. The word art is used to indicate the wider spectrum of art activities and to refer to more specific forms and processes by their disciplines and conventions.

Why Use Art?

One of the main reasons for the growth of arts-based approaches to research is recognition that life experiences are multi-sensory, multifaceted, and related in complex ways to time, space, ideologies, and relationships with others. Traditional approaches to research have been seen by increasing numbers of researchers as predominantly privileging cerebral, verbal, and linearly temporal approaches to knowledge and experience. The use of art in research is one of many shifts in the search for truthful means of investigation and representation. These include, among others, movements toward various forms of narratives (Riessman, 2008 ), recognition of indigenous knowledges, and indigenous ways of sharing and using knowledge (Bharucha, 1993 ; Smith, 2014 ), auto-ethnographies (Ellis, 2004 ), conceptualizations of wicked questions (Rittel & Webber, 1973 ), processes of troubling (Gardiner, 2015 ), and queering (Halperin, 2003 ). Preissle ( 2011 ) writes about the “qualitative tapestry” (p. 689) and identifies historic and contemporary threads of epistemological challenges, methods, and purposes, pointing out the ever-increasing diversity in the field. Denzin and Lincoln ( 2011 ) describe qualitative research as a site of multiple interpretative practices and, citing St. Pierre’s ( 2004 ) argument that we are in a post “post” period, assert that “we are in a new age where messy, uncertain multi-voiced texts, cultural criticism, and new experimental works will become more common, as will more reflexive forms of fieldwork, analysis and intertextual representation” (p. 15). Springgay, Irwin, and Kind ( 2005 ) assert that a/r/tography is not a new branch of qualitative research but a methodology in its own right, and that it conceptualizes inquiry as an embodied encounter through visual and textual experiences. The use of art in research is a succession of approaches to develop methodology that is meaningful and useful.

Art, product, and process allow and even invite art-makers to explore and play with knowing and meaning in ways that are more visceral and interactive than the intellectual and verbal ways that have tended to predominate in Western discourses of knowledge. It invites art viewers to interact with representations in ways that involve their senses, emotions, and ideas. Eisner ( 1998 , 2002 ) makes a number of significant assertions about the relationship between form and knowledge that emphasize the importance of art processes in offering expanded understandings of “what it means to know” (Eisner, 1998 , p. 1). He states: “There are multiple ways in which the world can be known: Artists, writers, and dancers, as well as scientists, have important thongs to tell about the world” (p. 7). Like other constructivists (Bruner, 1990 ; Guba, 1996 ), he further argues that because human knowledge is a constructed form of experience, it is a reflection of mind as well as nature, that knowledge is made, not simply discovered. He then reasons that “the forms through which humans represent their conception of the world have a major influence on what they are able to say about it” (p. 6), and, making particular reference to education, he states that whichever particular forms of representation become acceptable “is as much a political matter as an epistemological one” (p. 7). Eisner’s arguments to extend conceptualizations of knowledge within the field of education have been echoed in the practices of art-based researchers.

Artists themselves understand through their practice that art is way of coming to know the world and of presenting that knowing, emergent and shifting though it may be, to others. Sometimes the process of coming to know takes the form of social analysis. In Guernica , as a well-known example, Picasso scrutinizes and crystallizes the brutal betrayals and waste of war. In Caucasian Chalk Circle , Brecht fractures and strips bare ideas of justice, loyalty, and ownership. Their respective visual and dramatic montages speak in ways that are different from and arguably more potent than discursive descriptions.

In many indigenous cultures, art forms are primary ways of processing and recording communally significant information and signifying relationships. For New Zealand Māori, the meeting house, with its visual images, poetry, song, oratory, and rituals, is the repository library of mythic and genealogical history and of the accumulated legacies of meetings, contested positions, and nuanced consensual decisions. Art within Māori and other indigenous culture is not an illustrative addition to knowledge systems, it is an integral means of meaning making and recording.

One of the characteristics of arts and arts-based research projects is that they engage with aesthetic understandings as well as with discursive explanations. The aesthetic is a contested term (Greenwood, 2011 ; Hamera, 2011 ). However, it is used here to describe the engagement of senses and emotion as well as intellectual processes, and the consequent collation of semiotics and significances that are embedded in cultural awareness and are variously used by art makers and art viewers to respond to works of art. An aesthetic response thus is a visceral as well as rational one. It may be comfortable with ambiguities, and it may elude verbalization.

The processes of art-making demand a commitment to a continuous refinement of skills and awareness. Art-viewers arguably also gain more from an artwork as they acquire the skills and literacies involved with that particular art form and as they gain confidence to engage with the aesthetic. However, viewers may apprehend meaning without mastery of all the relevant literacies. I recall an experience of watching flamenco in El Puerto de Santa Maria, a township outside Cadiz. My senses drank in the white stone of former monastery walls and the darkening sky over an open inner courtyard. My muscles and emotions responded spontaneously to the urgency of the guitar and the beaten rhythms on a packing case drum. My nerves tensed as the singer’s voice cut through the air. The two dancers, both older and dressed in seemingly causal fawn and grey, riveted my attention. I was a stranger to the art form, and I did not know the language of the dance and could not recognize its phases or its allusions. I did feel the visceral tug of emotion across space. My heart and soul responded to something urgent, strangely oppressive, but indefinable that might have an apprehension of what those who understand flamenco call duende . If I was more literate in the art form, I would no doubt have understood a lot more, but the art, performed by those who did know and had mastered its intricacies, communicated an experience of their world to me despite my lack of training. In that evening, I learned more about the experience of life in southern Spain than I had in my earlier pursuit of library books and websites.

Art, thus, is positioned as a powerful tool that calls for ever-refining expertise in its making, but that can communicate, at differing levels, even with those who do not have that expertise. Researchers who use art draw on its rich, and sometimes complex and elusive, epistemological bases to explore and represent aspects of the world. The researchers may themselves be artists; at the least, they need to know enough of an art form to be aware of its potential and how to manipulate it. In some cases intended participants and audiences may also be artists, but often they are not. It is the researcher who creates a framework in which participants join in the art or in which audiences receive it.

Art, Research Purpose, and Research Validity

So far, the argument for the value of art as a way of knowing is multifarious, embodied, and tolerant of ambivalences and ambiguities. Where then are the rigors that are widely held as essential for research? It can be argued that arts-based research, to be considered as research, needs to have explicit research purpose and needs to subject itself to peer critique.

As has been widely noted (Eisner, 1998 ; Leavy, 2017 ; Sullivan, 2010 ), the making of art involves some investigation, both into the process of making and into some aspect of the experiential world. In research, that purpose needs to be overt and explicit. When the purpose is identified, then the choice of methods can be open to critical scrutiny and evaluation. The design of an arts-based research project is shaped, at its core, by similar considerations as other research.

Arts-based research needs to be explicit about what is being investigated. If the objective is not clear, then the result may still be art, but it is hard to call it research. Purpose determines which of the vast array of art strategies and processes will be selected as the research methods. The trustworthiness of any research depends on a number of factors: at the design stage, it depends on a clear alignment between the purpose of the research and the methods selected to carry out the investigation. In arts-based research, as in other research, it is vital that the researcher identifies the relationship between purpose and selected art tools, and offers recipients of the research clear means to evaluate and critique the reliability and usefulness of the answers that come from the research. This is where choices about strategies need to be clearly identified and explained, and both the aims and boundaries of the investigation need to be identified.

This does not imply need for a rigid and static design. Art is an evolving process, and the research design can well be an evolving one, as is the case with participatory action research (Bryndon-Miller, Karl, Maguire, Noffke, & Sabhlok, 2011 ), bricolage (Denzin & Lincoln, 2011 ), and a number of other research approaches. However, the strategic stages and choices of the emergent design donot need to be identified and explained. Nor does it imply that all data or findings need to be fully explicable verbally. One of the reasons for choosing arts-based methods, although not the only one, is to allow the operation of aesthetic and subconscious understandings as well as conscious and verbalized ones. That is part of the epistemological justification for choosing an arts-based approach. The ambivalences and pregnant possibilities that result may be considered valued gains from the choice of research tools, and their presence simply needs to be identified, together with explication of the boundaries of how such ambivalence and possibilities relate to the research question.

Different Kinds of Purpose

The sections of this article examine common and different areas of purpose for which arts-based research is frequently used, arranging them into three clusters and discussing some of the possibilities within each one.

The first, and perhaps largest, cluster of purposes for using arts-based research is to investigate some social (in the broadest sense of the word) issue. Such issues might, for example, include woman’s rights, school absenteeism, gang membership, cross-cultural encounters, classroom relationships, experiences of particular programs, problems in language acquisition. The methodological choices involved in this group of purposes have been repeatedly addressed (e.g., Boal, 1979 ; O’Brien & Donelan, 2008 ; Finley, 2005 ; Leavy, 2017 ; Prosser, 2011 ; Wang & Burns, 1997 ) in discussions of the use of arts-based approaches to the social sciences. The intention for using arts-based tools is to open up different, and hopefully more empowering, options for exploring the specific problem or issue, and for expressing participants’ perspectives in ways that can bypass participants’ discomfort with words or unconscious compliance with dominant discourses, or perhaps to present findings in ways that better reveal their dynamics and complexity than written reports.

Another smaller, but important, cluster of purposes is to research art-making processes or completed art works. For example, a theater director (Smithner, 2010 ) investigates the critical decisions she made in selecting and weaving together separate performance works into a theatrical collage. Or, a researcher (O’Donoghue, 2011 ) investigates how a conceptual artist working with film and video enquires into social, political, and cultural issues and how he shapes his work to provoke viewers to develop specific understandings. These kinds of studies explore the how and why of art-making, focusing on the makers’ intentions, their manipulation of the elements and affordances of their specific art field, and often engage with aesthetic as well as sociocultural dimensions of analysis. Often such studies are presented as narratives or analytic essays, and it is the subject matter of the research that constitutes the arts basis. Sometimes, such studies find expression in new artworks, as is the case in Merita Mita’s film made about the work of painter Ralph Hotere (Mita, 2001 ), which interlays critical analyses, documentation of process, interviews, and pulsating images of the artworks.

The third cluster involves research about teaching, therapy, or community development through one or more of the arts. Here arts are primarily the media of teaching and learning. For example, when drama is the teaching medium, the teacher may facilitate the class by taking a fictional role within the narrative that provokes students to plan, argue, or take action. Students may be prompted to use roles, create improvisations, explore body representations of ideas or conflicts, and explore contentious problems in safely fictitious contexts. Because it examines both work within an art form and changes in learners’ or community members’ understandings of other issues, this cluster overlaps somewhat with the two previous clusters. However, it is also building a body of its own traditions.

One strong tradition is the documentation of process. For example, Burton, Lepp, Morrison, and O’Toole ( 2015 ) report two decades of projects, including Dracon and Cooling Conflict , which have used drama strategies as well as formal theoretical teaching to address conflict and bullying. They have documented the specific strategies used, discussed their theoretical bases, and acknowledged the evidence on which they base their claims about effectiveness of the strategies in building understanding about and reducing bullying. The strategies used involved use of role and improvisation and what the authors call an enhanced form of Boal’s Forum Theatre. Other examples include the Risky Business Project (O’Brien & Donelan, 2008 ), a series of programs involving marginalized youth in dance, drama, music, theater performance, stand-up comedy, circus, puppetry, photography, visual arts, and creative writing; explorations of cross-cultural understandings through drama processes (Greenwood, 2005 ); the teaching of English as a second language in Malaysia through teacher-in-role and other drama processes (Mohd Nawi, 2014 ); working with traditional arts to break down culturally bound ways of seeing the world (Stanley, 2014 ); and the training of a theater-for-development team to use improvisational strategies to address community problems (Okagbue, 2002 ). While the strategies are arts processes and the analysis of their effect addresses aesthetic dimensions of arts as well as cognitive and behavioral ones, the reporting of these projects is primarily within the more traditional verbal and discursive forms of qualitative research.

Sometimes the reporting takes a more dramatic turn. Mullens and Wills ( 2016 ) report and critically analyze Re-storying Disability Through the Arts , an event that sought to create space for dialogue between students, researchers, artists, educators, and practitioners with different involvements or interests in disability arts. They begin their report by re-creating a scene within the workshop that captures some of the tensions evoked, and follow this with a critical commentary on three community-based art practices that engage in a strategy of re-storying disability. They present arts as means to “counter powerful cultural narratives that regulate the lives and bodies of disabled people” (Mullens & Wills, 2016 , p. 5). Barrett ( 2014 ) reports a project, informed by an a/r/tography methodology, which utilized the classroom teaching of the prescribed arts curriculum to allow students to explore evolving understandings of identity and community. Montages of photographs are a central component in the report, as is a series of images that illustrate Barrett’s reflections on her own role within the investigation.

Using Art to Research Social Issues: Collecting Data

Within a social science research project, art processes might be used to collect data, to carry out analysis and interpretation, or to present findings. Perhaps the most common use is to collect data. The process of photovoice (Wang & Burns, 1997 ), for example, gives participants cameras and asks them to capture images that they consider as significant elements of the topic being investigated. Graffiti might be used to prompt absentee students to discuss their perceptions of schooling. Body sculptures, freeze frames, and hot seating are examples of drama strategies that could be used to facilitate reflection and debate about cross-cultural encounters, feelings about hospitalization, experiences of domestic violence, or an array of other topics.

In each case the art produced becomes the basis for further discussion. This process is quite different from historical concepts of art therapy, where the therapist would give expert insight into what a patient’s artwork means; here it is the participants who give the explanation, perhaps independently or perhaps through dialogue with other participants and the researcher. The embodied experience of construction provides a platform and a challenge to talking in ways that are more thoughtful and more honest than through a conventionally structured verbal interview. The talk after making is important, but the art products are not merely precursors to verbal data, they are concrete points of references to which both participants and researchers can refer and can use to prompt further introspection or deconstruction. The process of making, moreover, is one that allows time for reflection and self-editing along the way and so may yield more truthful and complex answers than those that might be given instantly in an interview. Participants who are second language speakers or who lack the vocabulary or theoretical constructs to express complex feelings, reactions, or beliefs can be enabled to use physicalization to create a bridge between what they know or feel wordlessly inside them and an external expression that can be read by others.

The art tools available for such data gathering are as varied as the tools used by artists for making art. They might include drawing, collage, painting, sculpting materials or bodies, singing, orchestration, Lego construction, movement improvisation, creation of texts, photography, graffiti, role creation, and/or spatial positioning.

Art Processes as Tools for Analysis

Art processes can also be used to analyze and interpret data. Within qualitative paradigms, the processes of collecting and interpretation of data often overlap. This is also true of arts-based research. For instance, Greenwood ( 2012 ) reported on a group of experienced Bangladeshi educators who came to New Zealand to complete their Masters. While they were proficient in English, they found colloquial language challenging, struggling often to find words with the right social or emotional connotations at the speed of conversation. In previous discussions, they often looked to each other for translation. A teaching workshop, held as an illustration of arts-based research, addressed the research question: what have been your experiences as international students? A small repertoire of drama strategies, particularly freeze frames with techniques for deconstructing and refining initial offers, short animations, and narrative sequencing were used. These prompted participants to recall and show personal experiences, to critically view and interpret one another’s representations, and to further refine their images to clarify their intended meaning. The participants flung themselves into the challenge with alacrity and flamboyance and created images of eagerness, hope, new relationships, frustration, failed communication, anger, dejection, unexpected learning, and achievement. They also actively articulated ideas as we deconstructed the images and, through debate, co-constructed interpretations of what was being shown in the work and what it meant in terms of their experience, individual and shared, of overseas study. The interweaving of making, reflection, discussion, and further refinement is intrinsic to process drama; as a research method, it affords a means of interweaving data collection and collaborative analysis. In this case the participants also debated aspects of the validity of the process as research, raising questions about subjectivity in interpretation, about the nature of crystallization (Richardson, 1994 ), about informed consent, and about co-construction of narratives. Analysis shifted from being the task of an outsider researcher to one carried out, incrementally and experimentally, by insider participants. While the researcher held the initial power to focus the work, participants’ physical entry into the work, and their interrogation of the images that were created constituted a choice of how much they would share and contribute, and so they became active and sometimes playful partners in the research. This approach to analysis shares many features with participatory action research (Brydon-Miller et al., 2011 ), both in eliciting the agency of participants and in evolving a process of analysis that is interwoven with the gathering of data from preceding action and with the planning of further investigative cycles of action.

The work of Boal is perhaps one of the best known examples of the use of an art process, in this case theater, as a means of analysis of data. Boal’s Theatre of the Oppressed ( 1979 ) details a series of strategies for deconstruction and collaborative analysis. For example, in the process he calls image theatre , participants select a local oppressive problem that they seek to resolve. They create and discuss images that exemplify experience of the problem and their idealized solutions (the data); they then analyze their images to find where power resides and how it is supported. Boal’s theater process calls for experimentation with further images that explore scenarios where power could become shared to some extent and could allow further action by those who experience the oppression. The process finishes with consequential explorations of the first step to be taken by participants as a means to work toward an equilibrium of power. Boal, as the title of his book, Theatre of the Oppressed , acknowledges, draws on the work of his Braziailan compatriot, Freire, and particularly on his concept of conscientization (Freire, 1970 , 1972 ). Boal’s process for analyzing experiences of oppression is not so much a direct action plan as a means of analyzing the mechanisms of specific conditions of oppression and the potential, however limited, for agency to resolve the oppression. The sequenced strategies of creating and discussing alternative images of oppression, power relationships, and action enable participants to deconstruct the socio-cultural reality that shapes their lives and to gain awareness of their capacity to transform it.

Art as a Means to Present Findings

There is a large and growing body of research that presents findings in arts forms. A few examples are briefly discussed.

After collecting data, through interviews and official communications from participants in a case where a district school was being threatened with closure, Owen ( 2009 ) commissioned a composer to write a score for sections of his transcripts and create a community opera. He expressed the hope that this would “transform their tiny stories into noisy histories” (p. 3). Part of the data was sung at a conference I attended. I was struck by the shift in power. What I might have regarded as dull data in a PowerPoint presentation now became a compelling articulation of experiences and aspirations and a dynamic debate between personal lives and authoritarian policy.

The AIDS Memorial Quilt project (Morris, 2011 ; Yardlie & Langley, 1995 ) is frequently described as the world’s greatest piece of community folk art. A claim can be made that, while each panel in the quilt is a product of folk art, the collation of the quilt in its enormity is a work of conceptual art that juxtaposes the fragility and isolation of individual loss with the overwhelming global impact of the AIDS epidemic. The quilt can also be seen as research that visually quantifies the death toll through AIDS in Western world communities and that qualitatively investigates the life stories and values of those who died through the perceptions of those who loved them.

A number of museums throughout the world present visual and kinaesthetic accounts of social and historical research. Well-known examples are the Migration Museum in Melbourne, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and the Documentation Center for the History of National Socialism in Munich. A less securely established exhibition is that of images of the Australian Aboriginal Stolen Generation that was collected by the Dumbartung Aboriginal Corporation to educate community and schoolchildren, “but only had the funding to showcase the exhibit for one night” (Diss, 2017 ). These and many other exhibitions create visual and experiential environments where the data of history can be not only seen and read but also felt.

In a similar way to how these exhibitions use actual archival photographs, theater may use the exact words of interviews to re-tell real stories. In making Verbatim , Brandt and Harcourt ( 1994 ) collated the words from 30 interviews with convicted murderers, their families, and the families of murder victims. “We went into the prisons to find out what the story was that we were going to tell, and that was the story that emerged from the material we collected,” Harcourt explained (White, 2013 ). “Not only the content, but also the form emerged from that context. We didn’t go in having decided we were going to make a solo show. Form emerged from the experience of the prison system.”

A frequently used form is that of ethnodrama (Mienczakowski, 1995 ; Saldaña, 2008 ). Ethnodrama presents data in a theatrical form: using stage, role, and sometimes lighting and music. Saldaña ( 2008 ) explains that ethnodrama maintains “close allegiance to the lived experiences of real people while presenting their voices through an artistic medium” (p. 3) and argues that the goals are not only aesthetic, they also possess emancipatory potential for motivating social change within participants and audiences.

Sometimes the ethnographic material is further manipulated in the presentation process. Conrad ( 2012 ) describes her research into the Native program at the Alberta youth corrections center in play form as “an ethnographic re-presentation of the research—a creative expression of the research findings” (p. xii). Her play jumps through time, creating fragments of action, and is interspersed by video scenes that provide alternative endings that could result from choices made by the characters. Conrad explains her choice of medium: “Performance has the potential to reach audiences in ways beyond intellectual understanding, through engaging other ways of knowing that are empathetic, emotional, experiential, and embodied, with the potential for radically re-envisioning social relations” (p. xiii).

Belliveau ( 2015 ) created a performative research about his work in teaching Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing in an elementary school. He interwove excerpts of students’ performances from the Shakespearean text with excerpts of their discussions about the issues of power, pride, love, and other themes in a new performance work that illustrated as well as explained primary students’ response to Shakespeare. He later presented a keynote at the IDEA (International Drama in Education Association) conference in Paris where he performed his discussion of this and other work with young students. Similarly, Lutton’s ( 2016 ) doctoral research explored the work and challenges of selected international drama educators using imagination and role play. In her final performance of her research, she took the role of an archivist’s assistant at a fictitious Museum of Educational Drama and Applied Theatre to provide “an opportunity for drama practitioners to use their skills and knowledge of drama pedagogy to tell their own stories” (Lutton, p. 36). She states that her choice of research tool embraces theatricality, enabling the embodiment of participants’ stories, the incorporation of critical reflection and of aesthetic knowledge (p. 36).

The Cheviot, the Stag, and the Black Black Oil , developed by John McGrath and the 7:84 Theatre Company, recounts the history of economic exploitation of the Scottish people, from the evictions that followed the clearances for the farming of Cheviot sheep, through the development of Highland stag hunts, to the capitalist domination of resources in the 1970s oil boom. Within a traditional ceilidh form it tells stories, presents arguments, and uses caricature, satire, and parody. The play is the result of research and of critical analysis of movements of power and economic interests. It is also a very effective instrument of political persuasion: McGrath gives the dispossessed crofters a language that tugs at our empathy whereas that of the landlords provokes our antagonism. Is this polemics or simple historic truth? Does the dramatic impact of the play unreasonably capture our intellects? And if the facts that are presented are validated by other accounts of history does it matter if it does? What is, what should be, what can be the relationship between research and the evocation, even manipulation of emotions?

Emotion—and Its Power

In as much as arts offer different ways of knowing the world, their use at various stages of research has the power to influence both what we come to know and how we know it. Art tools, strategically used, allow access to emotions and visceral responses as well as to conscious ideas. That makes them powerful for eliciting information. It also makes them powerful in influencing audiences.

The photos of the brutality of the police and of the steadfastness of the activists in the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg are examples of powerfully influencing as well as informing data. As well as the events that are recorded, the faces and the bodies speak through the photos. Their exhibition in blown-up size at eye level together with film footage and artifacts create a compellingly powerful response in viewers. Like many others, I came out of the museum emotionally drained and confirmed, even strengthened, in my ideological beliefs. The power of the exhibition had first sharpened and then consolidated my understandings. Was this because of the power of the facts presented in the exhibition, or was it because of the power of their presentation ? Or was it both? When the issue presented is one like apartheid, I am not afraid of having my awareness influenced in multiple ways: I believe I already have an evidence-informed position on the subject. I also applaud the power of the exhibition to inform and convince those who might not yet have reached a position. But what if the issue was a different one? Perhaps one which I was more uncertain about? Might it then seem that the emotional power of the exhibition gave undue weight to the evidence?

The issue here is not a simple one. The presentation is not only the reporting of findings: it is also art. The researcher (in the artist) stays true to the data; the artist (in the researcher) arranges data for effect and affect. Conrad explicitly states her hope that her choice of presentation mode will add impact to her research findings: she wants the presentation of her research about youth in detention centers to engender more empathetic understandings of their experiences and lead, in turn, to more constructive attitudes toward their needs. By putting their words to music, Owen wants his audience to listen more attentively to opinions of the stakeholders in the schools threatened with closure. McGrath wants his audience to side with those dispossessed by the combined power of capital and law. The Dumbartung Aboriginal Corporation plans to emotionally move as well as to inform its community. In writing Broadwood , I meticulously presented both sides of the dispute, I deliberately placed music and metaphor at the service of Maori language, and I deliberately used the spatial suggestiveness of the stage to evoke possibilities in the ending. The boy is alone in the library while his classmates are on the marae listening to an elder explain the history of their meetinghouse. The elder gives them an ancient whalebone weapon to hold, the students pass it among themselves, then hold it out across space to the boy. The boy stands, takes half a cautious step toward them and then stops; the lights go down. I intended the audience to complete the action in their subconscious.

In each of these cases, the art form of the presentation allows the artist/researcher to manipulate affect as well as critical cognition. To my mind, this is not simply another iteration of the argument between subjectivity and objectivity in research. Many contemporary approaches to research openly recognize that knowledge is mediated by context, experience, and social and historical discourses as well as by individuals’ personal interpretation (Denzin & Lincoln, 2011 ; Ellis, 2004 ). It is shaped by what is left out as well as by what is included. The practice of careful and scrupulous reflexivity is a way of acknowledging and bounding the subjectivity of the researcher (Altheide & Johnson, 2011 ; Ellingson, 2011 ). The researcher-who-is-artist draws on a subconscious as well as a conscious sense of how things fit together, and constructs meaning subconsciously as well as consciously, manipulating affect and effect in the process. Perhaps all researchers do so to some extent. For instance, the deliberately invisible authors of much quantitative research, who allow the passive voice to carry much of the reporting, who triangulate and define limitation, create an effect of fair-minded and dependable authority. The affect is not necessarily misleading, and it is something that readers of research have learned to recognize. However, the researcher-who-is-artist can draw on the rich repertoire of an art field that already operates in the domain of the aesthetic as well as of the critically cognitive, in spaces that are liminal as well those that are defined. It is arguable that readers of research still need to recognize and navigate through those spaces. Arguably, the challenge exists not only in the field of research: it is present in all the media that surrounds our daily lives.

A/r/tography and Examination of Places Between

The challenge of exploring liminal spaces of intention, process, explanation, effect, and affect is seriously taken up by the emergent discipline of a/r/tography . The backslashes in the term speak of fracture; they also denote the combined authorial roles of artist, researcher, and teacher. Springgay, Irwin, and Kind ( 2005 ) explain that a/r/tography is deliberately introspective and does not seek conclusions: rather it plays with connections between art and text and seeks to capture the embodied experience of exploring self and the world. Irwin et al. ( 2006 ) state: “Together, the arts and education complement, resist, and echo one another through rhizomatic relations of living inquiry” (p. 70). A/r/tography is explicitly positioned as a practice-based and living inquiry: it explores but resists attempting to define the spaces between artist, teacher, and researcher, and so implicitly rejects boundaries between these roles. It conceptualizes inquiry as a continuing experiential process of encounter between ideas, art media, context, meaning, and evolving representations. At the same time as it blurs distinctions, it teases out interrelationships: it offers art inquiry as something that is purposeful but unfixed, and art knowing as something that is personally and socially useful, but at best only partially and temporarily describable, never definable. This is one reason why its proponents explain it as a substantively different and new methodology outside the existing frameworks of qualitative research.

A/r/tography emerged out of the field of art education, with the explicit aim to extend the opportunities afforded by education in the arts, and to develop means to record and report the complex facets of learning and teaching in the arts. Consequently its language may be experienced, by readers who are outside the discipline, as highly abstract, deliberately ambiguous, and even esoteric: it seems to speak, as many research disciplines do, primarily to others in its own field. However, its broad principles have been picked up, and perhaps adapted, by practitioners who seek to explore the processes of their students’ learning through the arts and the evolving understandings they develop. For instance, Barrett and Greenwood ( 2013 ) report exploration of the epistemological third space through which place-conscious education and visual arts pedagogy can be interwoven and through which students, many of whom do not aspire to become artists, can use art-making to re-imagine and re-mark their understandings of their physical and social context and of their relationship with community. The value of this kind of research is posed in terms of the insights it affords rather than its capacity for presenting authoritative conclusions.

A Conference Debate, and the Politics of Research

Whether the provision of insights is enough to make art-making into research is a question that is frequently and sometimes fiercely contested. One such debate took place at a European conference I recently attended. It occurred in an arts-based research stream, and it began with the presentation of two films. The films were relatively short, and a discussion followed and became increasingly heated. Personally, I liked the films. The first reported a dance process that became an undergraduate teaching text. The second, in layers of imagery and fragments of dialogue, explored the practice of two artists. However, I was not sure what the added value was in calling either research. I saw art responding to art, and that seemed valuable and interesting enough. Why was the construct of research being privileged? The filmmakers defended the claim to research on the grounds that there was inquiry, on the grounds that art spoke in languages that were best discussed through art, and on the grounds that research was privileged in their institutions. Then a respected professor of fine arts put forward more direct criticism. Research, he argued, needed to make explicit the decisions that were made in identifying and reporting findings so that these would be accessible for peer review. Neither film, he said, did so. Defenses from the audience were heated. Then another senior art educator argued that art itself could not just be self-referential: it had to open a space for others to enter. The debate continued in corridors long after the session ended.

That the criticisms were unrelenting seemed an indication of how much was at stake. The space held by arts-based research within the European academic congregation is still somewhat fragile. The arts-based network was formed because of advocates’ passionate belief in the extended possibilities that arts-based methods offer, and this year again it expressed its eagerness to receive contributions in film and other art media as well as PowerPoint and verbal presentations. However, the network also saw itself as a custodian of rigor.

The participants in the session re-performed an argument that lingers at the edges of arts-based research. At the far ends of the spectrum, art and research are readily recognizable, and when art is borrowed as a tool in research, the epistemological and methodological assumptions are explicable. But the ground is more slippery when art and research intersect more deeply. When is the inquiry embedded within art, and when does it become research? Is it useful to attempt demarcations? What is lost from art or from research if demarcations are not attempted? The questions, as well as possible answers, are, as Eisner suggested, political as well as philosophical and methodological.

The doing of research and its publication have become big academic business. Universities around the world are required to report their academics’ research outputs to gain funding. My university, for example, is subject to a six-yearly round of assessment of research performance, based primarily on published and on funded research outputs. Each academic’s outputs are categorized and ranked, and the university itself is ranked and funded, in comparison with the other universities in the country. There is pressure on each academic to maximize research publications, even at the cost, it often seems, of other important academic activities, such as teaching. The competitive means of ranking also increases contestations about what is real research, serving both as a stimulus for positioning differing forms of inquiry as research and as a guarded gateway that permits some entries and denies others. Politicians and policymakers, in their turn, favor and fund research that can provide them with quotable numbers or clear-cut conclusions. Arts-based research still battles for a place within this politico-academic ground, although there appears to be growing acceptance of the use of art tools as means to elicit data.

Site for Possibilities—and Questions

The politics of research do matter, but for researchers who are committed to doing useful research, there are other factors to consider when choosing research approaches. These include the potentialities of the tools, the matter that is to be investigated, and the skills and practice preferences of the researcher.

The emergence and development of processes of arts-based research are grounded in belief that there are many ways of knowing oneself and the world, and these include emotions and intuitive perceptions as well as intellectual cognition. The epistemology of arts-based research is based on understandings that color, space, sound, movement, facial expression, vocal tone, and metaphor are as important in expressing and understanding knowledge as the lexical meanings of words. It is based on understandings that symbols, signs, and patterns are powerful means of communication, and that they are culturally and contextually shaped and interpreted. Arts-based research processes tolerate, even sometimes celebrate, ambiguity and ambivalence. They may also afford license to manipulate emotions to evoke empathy or direct social action.

The use of arts-based processes for eliciting participants’ responses considerably increases researchers’ repertoire for engaging participants and for providing them with means of expression that allow them to access feelings and perceptions that they might not initially be able to put into words as well as giving them time and strategies for considering their responses. The use of arts-based processes for analysis and representation allow opportunities for multidimensional, sensory, and often communal explorations of the meaning of what has been researched. It also presents new challenges to receivers of research who need to navigate their way not only through the overt ambiguities and subjective expression, but also through the invisible layers of affect that are embedded in art processes.

The challenges signal continuing areas of discussion, and perhaps work, for both arts-based researchers and for the wider research community. Does the use of art in representation of research findings move beyond the scope of critical peer review? Or do we rather need to develop new languages and strategies for such review? Do we need critical and recursive debate about when art becomes research and when it does not? Are the ambiguities and cognitive persuasions that are inherent in arts-based representations simply other, and useful, epistemological stances? Does the concept of research lose its meaning if it is stretched too far? Does art, which already has a useful role in interpreting and even shaping society, need to carve out its position as research? Does the entry of arts-based research into the arena of research call for revisions to the way we consider ethics? How do the procedures of institutional ethics committees need to be adapted to accommodate the engagement of the human body as well as the emergent design and ambiguities of the arts-based research processes? What are the more complex responsibilities of arts-based researchers toward their participants, particularly in terms of cultural protocols, reciprocity of gains, and the manipulation of emotions and cognition through visually or dramatically powerful presentations?

The already existing and expanding contribution of arts-based researchers argues vigorously for the place of arts processes in our congregations of research discussion and production. Quite simply, the arts address aspects of being human that are not sufficiently addressed by other methodologies. They are needed in our repertoire of tools for understanding people and the world. However, like other research approaches, they bring new challenges that need to be recognized and debated.

70 Top Art Research Paper Topics To Explore

Unlike other forms of expression, it is difficult to determine the value of art using figures. However, personal impressions can help us measure this value and consequently making it a subject of research. Many people find it challenging to study topics related to emotions. If you are one of them, you can now breathe a sigh of relief. We give you manageable and useful art research paper topics that will soften your entire essay writing process.

Have a look at our dazzling and inspiring art paper topics below. They will give you the right direction for your research and pave the way to a thrilling and art-provocative essay. Let’s dive in.

Art History Research Paper Topics: Romanticism

Who doesn’t love romance! It is one of the most significant art history times that would excite many to write and also read. Do you remember the likes of Romeo and Juliet? Well, here is more of that:

Romantic originality in the 19th century
Art philosophers who pioneered the romantic movement: A case study
Visionary and imaginary part in romanticism
Romantic literature as a form of romanticism: A critical analysis
Discuss the main features of romanticism in the art history
Why did romanticists use the world around us (nature)
What is the place of emotions and feelings in the romanticism era
Describe the impact of “The sublime” phrase used in romantic literature
The judgmental and restrictive thinking of the mid-19th century in romanticism
American romanticism: A review of the poetic art history
Important symbols in the passionate art history age
Local color as a style in romanticism
A study of the Hudson River in romanticism
Why did romantic literature focus on the idea of the inner self

Great Arts Research Paper Topics on Minimalism

Minimalism, as a form of art, was a movement in painting and sculpture of the 1950s. It was made clear by the use of massive and straightforward ways. Here are some art research paper topics:

The elements of minimalism art in Specific Objects by Donald Judd
Discuss the rise of minimal art
How the purely visual response impacted minimalism art
Minimalism: Demystifying art and revealing its fundamental character
Explain the concept of pure aestheticism
What was the effect of removing self-expressionism from the artwork?
How to color was used to delineate space
How mass-produced materials underscored the lack of an artist’s mark
Understanding the minimalist sculptors
Describe Sculptor Sol LeWitt’s statement, “the most interesting characteristic of the cube is that it is relatively uninteresting.”
Debunking the non-hierarchical character of the grid-based compositions in minimalism art
Reconsidering the relationship of the audience to the art object
Discuss the industrial materials used by minimalists
How minimalist painters created objects with the presence
The impact of combining paint and canvas by minimalists making them inseparable

Eastern Art Research Topics

These arts research paper topics include developments in Asian art historically. There was a significant influence of Eastern art on Western art, and vice versa. Are you excited to explore some Eastern art history topics? Let’s go!

A history of Eastern art and its development
The artistic and architectural traditions of the Eastern art
How to develop and manage collections and exhibits from Eastern art
A survey of the visual arts of Eastern Asia from the 11th to the 15th centuries
A critical look at the Eastern art painting, sculpture, and architecture
High renaissance artists during the Eastern art history
Understanding the fundamentals of Eastern art history architectural analysis
Significant elements of the Chinese painting and calligraphy art
The origin of the Art of Israel and the Jewish diaspora
Evaluating the major orders of Cambodian art
Impact of Eastern art on cultural, religion, and religious development
Insights into the unique qualities of the Japanese art
Eastern dance and its contribution to aesthetics

Unusual Ancient Art History Paper Topics

Ancient art existed around 30,000 B.C.E. to 400 A.D. One can trace it back to the fertility statuettes, and the bone flutes up to roughly the fall of Rome. The art research topics here include:

The impact of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the nomadic tribes to the ancient art history
Cultures created during ancient art history
The role of oral tradition in promoting art
Development of the classical and Hellenistic art
The purpose of writing in ancient art history
How pictures colored the ancient era
Characteristics of Mesopotamian art
Impact of literature on religion, military, and hunting
A case study of professional artists and craftspeople in the ancient art
A review of the shapes and form of art in this period
Hierarchical representation of images in Egypt
The place of woodwork and metalwork
Impact of the major rivers on art
The use of ritual bronzes in ancient China

A-Grade Medieval Art Topics For Research Papers: Religious Aspects

Here’s some art thesis topics about medieval art:

Analyze the Mosaics in Basilica churches
The impact of Manuscript Illumination
Influence of art on Christian Architecture of churches and temples
A critical look at the walls of catacombs
An artistic study of the highly decorate pile carpets
The bright mosaics in Islam temples
Discuss the development of the Mughal portrait
The use of primary colors in Romanesque art
A survey of the stained glass
Features of abstract representation
Impact of ornate carvings in worship
Religious Byzantine theme: a case study
What are the essential imperial issues to the Byzantine society
Why many sculptures have failed to survive the passing of centuries

With these beautiful art research paper topics and ideas, nothing can stop you now. Pick one that suits your taste and embark on it right away.

Our professional research paper and thesis writers are on standby to help you write on any topic. If you’re thinking “where can someone write my dissertation for me ,” it’s here! All you need to do is to contact us and get your assignment done in no time!

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Why You Need Some Great Art Research Paper Topics

Do you need some great art essay topics? Or perhaps you want to find one or two original art history research topics right away. Before we give you the topics, we want to make sure you understand the importance of finding a new topic – one that has not yet been discovered by your classmates. Here are the 3 main reasons:

It shows your professor that you have did your best to find an interesting topic and that you were willing to dedicate more effort than your colleagues. This will usually get you bonus points. A good topic is one that you know something about. This makes writing the essay a lot easier. Finding excellent art topics for research papers is a skill you will use again and again in your academic career. Let’s face it: you will have to write dozens – if not hundreds – of essays.

Where to Find Other Art Topics?

Finding some great art history paper topics is not easy. If you are searching for art journal topics, things get even more complicated. Of course, the best way to find these ideas is the Internet. You could also try the local library or museum, but that would take a lot of your time; time students don’t usually have.

Even though you can find topics all over the Web, including on our website, keep in mind that your colleagues are also searching. You have no way of knowing which websites they visit. Some of them may be reading our latest topics as you are reading this article. To make sure you get the best topics for art projects and the most interesting art history thesis topics, you should get in touch with our experienced art assignment writers . They have been creating new and exciting topics for students for years. You can get a whole list of topics in just an hour or two, even in the middle of the night.

51 Best Art Topics Ideas for Students

We advise you to just try your luck and pick one of the art history essay topics or art research topics below. We update the list periodically to make sure nobody else in your class choses the same topic as you.

Art History Research Paper Topics

If you are looking for brand new art history research paper topics to write about right now, you have arrived at the right place. Check these ideas out:

Artist biography: Etienne Falconet
How was the Apocalypse depicted in different epochs?
Artist biography: Johann Sebastian Bach
Egyptian Art in the last 3,000 years.
Evolution of Asian art in the last millennia.

Controversial Art Topics

Of course you are allowed to write an exceptional essay about any controversial art topics you see fit. Here are some ideas:

Elements of Renaissance in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code
The role of the totem masks in Papua New Guinea art
The Garden of Delights: An analysis of biblical symbols.
La Note Bleu (Eric Roux-Fontaine): Analyzing magic realism
Changes in art fairs starting with the year 2,000

Easy Art Topics to Write About

If you don’t want to spend a lot of time writing the essay, take a look at these easy art topics to write about and pick the one you like:

Artist biography: Andy Warhol
Describe three important primeval music instruments.
Artist biography: Salvador Dali
Why was jewelry so important in Ancient Egypt?
Explain the Sacrifice motif in Mayan art.

Art History Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

Did you just receive an assignment that requires you to compare and contrast something? We have some interesting art history compare and contrast essay topics right here:

Compare and contrast Egyptian and Greek sculpture proportions.
The differences and similarities between English and French gardens.
The differences and similarities between Rococo and Baroque.
The differences and similarities between Édouard Manet and Gustave Courbet paintings.
Compare and contrast musical instruments in Europe and Asia.
Some of our ethnographic topics .

Art Debate Topics

There are plenty of debates going on in the art field. Yes, you can write about any of them, as long as you keep your writing objective. Examples of art debate topics include:

What constitutes “Good Art”?
Why are art disciplines important in the US education system?
Are computer games art?
What is the Mozart Effect? Is it real?
Art is a great way to invest.
Art education helps children think differently.

Art Education Research Topics

Do you have something on your mind? Do you know of a way to improve the education process? Here are some interesting art education research topics:

The use of social media in specific fields of art.
Painting should be a mandatory discipline.
Technology and its uses in teaching art.
Music should be a mandatory discipline.
The art of photography in school curriculum.

Some Topics for Art Projects

If you want to try your hand at an art project, you need to be very careful about the topic you choose. Take a look at our topics for art projects:

Are political cartoons that modern?
Is Bansky a genuine artist?
Design an Art Deco illustration.
Practical examples of Constructivism.
A visual representation of Conceptual Art.

Art Argumentative Essay Topics

The argumentative essay is perhaps the most widely used format. Are you looking for some original art argumentative essay topics? Here is what we have for you:

The techniques used in printmaking.
The role of carnival masks in Venice
The best painter in history is …
The best musician in history is …
The best sculptor in history is …

Contemporary Art Topics

Are you looking for some nice contemporary art topics that will impress your professor? We have some great examples for you below:

Artist biography: Alberto Giacometti
The styles of “The Kiss” (Gustav Klimt)
Artificial motifs in the painting Flag by Jasper Johns
Effects of art therapy applied to children
Describe the surrealism of Dali’s sculptures

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

It’s difficult to write about ancient art, especially if you don’t pick a good topic. Fortunately, you can find some of the best ancient art history research paper topics right here:

The industrial revolution and the development of art.
The main motifs in ancient Greek art.
The main motifs in ancient Roman art.
The best works of William Blake.
Medieval France and its obsession for stained glass.

So, getting some interesting art history topics that will almost guarantee you an A+ is as simple as visiting this page from time to time. If you need a great topic right now, contact us and we’ll send you a whole list in no time.

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A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics

Art is an exciting field of study, and research in this area is fun to do. We have identified the different areas and the possible topics you can research on. Art is a broad area of study but choosing a topic is not as difficult as you think. With the right guide, you can find interesting topics for your thesis. We have some tips to get you on the right path. We also provide you with some tips on how to choose a research topic in the arts.

How to Choose the Right Art Topic

Choosing a project topic in arts requires careful thought. To make things easier for you, we have noted some areas to consider before picking a research topic.

· Consider Your Interest

Art is a field of study that emphasizes creativity. It is a field that will require you to bring your creativity to bear. What happens if you search your mind and nothing comes out?

This problem can happen if you do not have an interest in the area. Even if you can come up with something, the ideas will not flow if you write about your area of interest.

There are areas of difficulty in every research, but you will be more inclined to find working solutions if it is your area of interest. If you are working on your area of study, you will be better attuned to the research. It also helps the overall look of your research. Your enthusiasm is essential in every project work.

· Access to Material

Before you decide to take on a topic for research in arts, you should consider the availability of materials and your access to them. Materials may be available, but you may not have access to them.

Essential questions to ask are, are there materials on this topic? Have books been published in this area? Are there articles online on this topic? You may also want to check if your school library has materials on the topic.

Then you have to ask if you have access to these materials. Can you download the material online? Or read them online? Are the books available for sale? If you answer yes, then you are good to go.

· Identify a Gap

Research is called so because someone else has researched that area before. So, what you are doing is a “re-search.” However, previous research could not have covered every aspect of that field or topic. Therefore, you have to identify that gap and fill it.

Without proper research, you will not come up with a viable topic. In academics, you do not have to repeat what someone has done already.

Expert Consulting for Art Research Paper Topics

Looking to excel in your art research paper? Our professional dissertation consultant is here to support you. With their expertise in the field of art, they can provide personalized guidance and advice on selecting engaging topics, conducting thorough research, and crafting a compelling art research paper. Benefit from the knowledge and experience of our dissertation consultants to enhance the quality and impact of your work. Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your art research paper with our expert consulting services.

Modern Art Topics

Themes in 21 st century paintings
Themes in 20 th century paintings
The new media and arts
Filmography in the 21 st century
Emerging forms in modern arts
Modern art as a viable tool for activism
Impact of technology on modern arts
Themes in modern poetry
What is the influence of feminism on modern art?
Gendered roles in modern arts

Media Art History Research Paper Topics

Art development and the media
Dynamics of art produced using the media
Globalization, digital art, and emerging discusses
Globalization, electronic art, and activism
Literature and the new media
Poetic rendition in the new media
The impact of digital technologies on art
Advertising in the 21 st century
Filmic art in the 21 st century
Computer games as art

Pop Art Research Paper Topics

Comic books as tools for social criticism
Advertising and sublimation: a study of the human psyche
Pop art as a platform for activism
Popular pop artists in the 21 st century
Thematic and stylistic trends in pop art
Technology and ethics in pop art
Pop art as high and low art
Pop art as an economy booster
Principles of pop art
Interaction and connection between pop art and other art forms

Visual Art Research Topics

Painting as pedagogy
Sculpture in the modern age
The creative works of popular artists
Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist’s creations
A comparison of style of different artists
Trends in photography in different generations
Impact of technology on visual art
Socioeconomic impact of animation
Impact of visual art on culture
Visual art and feminism

Art Therapy Research Paper Topics

The interworking of therapy and art
The use of art for therapeutic effects
Technological approaches to art therapy
The use of virtual reality in art therapy
Theories of art therapy
Dance therapy for the treatment of anxiety
Color therapy for children with learning disabilities
Music as therapy for depression
The evolution of art therapy

Art History Research Paper Topics

Impact of the industrial revolution on art
Themes and styles of painting in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
Aesthetics and styles in Francisco de Goya’s works
The place of art in human civilization
A comparison of the work of two prominent painters
Themes and styles of music in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
Influence of ancient philosophers on art
The aesthetics and style of Michelangelo’s works
The place of erotica in the arts
History of paintings in different cultures

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

Art forms and styles in Greece
Compare the artworks of different artists
Biblical motives in the works of Leonardo da Vinci
Early African arts and history
The history behind early roman arts
Chinese arts and lifestyle before the 21 st century
Ancient Egyptian arts and lifestyle
History of the pyramid of Egypt
The contribution of the Greek theatre to dramatic arts
Early arts and religion

Classical Greek Art Research Paper Topic

Classical Greek art-related topics for a research paper is an intelligent choice. There are several areas you can focus on including:

The different styles of Greeks pottery
Myths in classical Greek sculpture
Aesthetics and style of Greek architecture
Compare the works of legendary sculptors
Impact of religion on Greek artworks
Compare ancient Greek art with the present
The influence of science in Greek arts
Styles of Phidias sculptor
Imagery and symbolism in classical Greek arts
Relationship between classical Greek arts and Greece lifestyle

Renaissance Art Topics

A comparison of renaissance art in different parts of Europe
What was the influence of renaissance art on man’s worldview?
How is renaissance art different from those of the medieval age?
What are the aesthetics of the art of the time?
How is the nobility of man portrayed in the art forms of the age?
How was the renaissance a revival of classical Roman and Greek art?
What are the forms and styles of renaissance art?
History, evolution, and preservation of renaissance arts
How do the renaissance arts portray humanism and individualism?
What are the theories of renaissance art?

20th Century Research Paper Topics Art History

Specific museum and its art collection
Harlem renaissance as a springboard for art activism
Aesthetics and styles of Pablo Picasso’s arts
Influence of Jackson Pollock’s arts
Influence of religion and science on the 20 th century arts
Compare earlier art styles with those of the 20 th century
Artistic movements in the 20 th century
Political cartoons and their influence in 20 th century politics
Influence of earlier art style on 20 th art styles
The prominent art movement of the 20 th century

Great Thai Art Topic for a Research Paper

The culture and artistic heritage of Thailand
Influence of religion on Thai arts
Representation of Thai social life in Thai arts
Folk heritage of Thailand
Aesthetic and stylistic import of Thai arts
Ancient and prehistoric art forms
A diachronic study of Thai arts from prehistoric times to the present
Signs and symbols in Thai arts
The influence of globalization on contemporary Thai arts
Messages in line, color, and space in Thai art.

Medieval Art History Research Paper Topics

Aesthetics and style of Raphael’s paintings
Religious and non-religious art forms that originated from the time
The evolution and sustenance of art forms
Compare the artworks of Michelangelo and Raphael
History of renaissance arts
Symbols and motif in medieval paintings
Religious motifs in Leonardo de Vinci’s paintings
Aesthetics and styles of Byzantine art style
Evolution of early Christian arts,
Elements of Gothic arts

Mexican Revolutionary Art Research Paper Topics

Impact of the Mexican revolution on Mexican lifestyle
History and effects of revolutionary arts
Compare the artworks of Frida Kahlo, Diego, Rivera
Surrealism in Mexican arts
Mural paintings during the Mexican revolution
The place of arts in Mexican revolution
Different phases of the Mexican revolution and the artworks created during that time
Impact of the Mexican revolution on people’s perception of art
Compare Mexican revolutionary arts with those created after the revolution
Aesthetics and style of David Alfaro Siqueiros’s artworks

Argumentative Art Topics

Some art research paper topics in these areas include:

The most significant artwork in the 20th century
Is graffiti art or vandalism?
Which city has the most remarkable art history and why?
The relevance of medieval art in contemporary times
How has the museum preserved art culture and enthusiasm
Modern pop culture does not measure up to earlier times. Argue for or against
Do ethics limit art?
Has technology limited creativity in art?
Is the role of the artist in society relevant?
Do cartoons fuel or mediate in political issues?

Good South East Asia Art Topics for a Research Paper

Asia is a place of high artistic creations. Discuss
Compare ancient and contemporary Asian arts
History of calligraphy arts in East Asia
What is the philosophy behind ancient artistic creations of different ages?
The evolution of Bollywood
How does Chinese circus art reflect the Chinese tradition?
Jewelry styles and meaning in India
Aesthetics and styles in Japanese calligraphy art
Religious relevance of art in south India
The evolution of pop culture in India

Researches in art are not difficult if taken the right way. With this guide, picking an area of study and identifying the gap is not tedious. We have helped you out in this regard with the information provided above.

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Research Art is Everywhere. But Some Artists Do It Better Than Others.

By Kavior Moon

Kavior Moon

Dozens of archival documents—showing text too small to read and vintage photos of white men—are pinned in a semi-ordered, semi-chaotic grid.

In the global south, labeling a research project "art" can be a tool for evading censorship, when does artistic research become fake news forensic architecture keeps dodging the question.

How did this come to be? On the institutional front, art schools have been establishing programs and centers for “artistic research” and “research-creation,” particularly in Canada and across Europe, for more than 20 years. In 1997 the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki established an early notable doctoral program for artists; two decades later, PhD degrees in art are available in multiple countries. Globally renowned curators such as Catherine David, Okwui Enwezor, Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev, and Ute Meta Bauer made their careers organizing large-scale international exhibitions often laden with research-based art and organized within a curatorial framework predicated on theory. Now, there are professional artists with research-based practices teaching their students various research methodologies and encouraging the production of yet more research-based works.

The current trend has an even longer historical trajectory when related to artists and their motivations. One might find traces in the work of Leonardo da Vinci or 17th-century naturalists such as Maria Sibylla Merian. Hito Steyerl, a contemporary research artist par excellence, describes the formal and semiotic investigations of Soviet avant-garde circles in the 1920s as formative for research art today. In her 2010 essay “Aesthetics of Resistance? Artistic Research as Discipline and Conflict,” Steyerl discusses authors, photographers, and self-proclaimed “factographers”—including Dziga Vertov, Sergei Tretyakov, Lyubov Popova, and Aleksandr Rodchenko—whose epistemological debates centered on terms such as “fact,” “reality,” and “objectivity.” From Constructivism, in which artists were redefined as designers, technicians, and engineers engaged in developing new approaches to constructing forms, emerged the program of Productivism and the associated method called “factography.”

Factographers aimed to chronicle and analyze modern life, particularly through texts, photography, and film. They did not claim to portray reality objectively and impartially (as opposed to conventional documentary makers) but rather to actively transform reality through ideological acts of signification, through new modes of production and collective reception. As Steyerl reminds us, “fact comes from [the Latin] facere , to make or to do.”

Another pivotal moment in the historical development of research-based art came with the conceptual turn in art in the 1960s and ’70s, particularly with the emergence of institutional critique. Moving away from formalist painting and sculpture, Conceptual artists contended that the idea or concept of an artwork (not its physical form) was the art. Texts, diagrams, photographs, and other forms of matter-of-fact documentation feature heavily in the works of Conceptual artists Joseph Kosuth, the Art & Language group, Mel Bochner, Hanne Darboven, and Christine Kozlov, among others. From this point of view, art can be seen as a transmission of “information,” the term curator Kynaston McShine used to title his landmark Conceptual art survey at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1970.

WITH ARTISTS INCLINED TOWARD INSTITUTIONAL CRITIQUE like Hans Haacke, one begins to see research not just informing the work of art but becoming an essential part of its content. A significant early example is Haacke’s Shapolsky et al. Manhattan Real Estate Holdings, A Real-Time Social System, as of May 1, 1971 (1971), which was made using extensive information that Haacke found in the New York County Clerk’s records. The work is simply a presentation of facts: it comprises 142 photographs of building facades and empty lots, maps of the Lower East Side and Harlem indicating each property’s location, and texts and charts detailing information about transfer of ownership, land value, and mortgage lenders.

With prolonged viewing, one notices that the many corporations that owned the properties were actually run by notorious landlord Harry J. Shapolsky and his relatives and associates, who bought, sold, and mortgaged the properties within their own real estate group. The shell corporations effectively obscured the properties’ ownership ties to the Shapolsky family as well as the tax advantages these inside deals conferred. One of the city’s biggest slumlords at the time, Shapolsky had previously been indicted for bribing building inspectors and convicted of rent-gouging.

For institutional critique artists, research became a key means to investigate and expose various social systems and the sociopolitical context of the art world. In doing so, the aim was to show how what we consider “art” is not timeless but in fact socially constructed, powerfully conditioned by the conventions and normalizing practices of art institutions. Haacke’s Shapolsky et al. was one of the reasons the artist’s major solo show at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum that year was famously canceled after then director Thomas Messer accused Haacke of “muckraking,” calling his work “extra-artistic” and a potential “alien presence” within the museum.

Although Haacke clearly made visible the machinery behind one of the most lucrative real estate operations in New York, the more fundamental threat, art historian Rosalyn Deutsche has pointed out, was how his work would have framed a series of slum properties against the museum’s pristine space, revealing it as a highly controlled space of material privilege. Deutsche persuasively argues that Haacke’s work implicitly raises questions about how proprietorial interests shape not only urban space but cultural spaces as well—a line of inquiry that Haacke and other institutional critique artists would develop in subsequent research-based works.

THE LAST MOMENTOUS SHIFT in the 20th century occurred around the 1980s and ’90s, as more and more artists used research to inform their works reflecting feminism, postcolonialism, queerness, and other forms of identity politics. An early example is Mary Kelly’s Post-Partum Document (1973–79), a six-part series that juxtaposes documentation of the artist’s experience as a new parent and the development of her son during the first six years of his life with research on the psychoanalytic theories of Jacques Lacan. A feminist critique of Conceptual art as well as Lacanian psychoanalysis, Post-Partum Document presents the mother-child relationship as an intersubjective exchange of signs between mother and child.

During these decades, artists often used archival materials or the form of the archive in their works, making research-based art to recuperate overlooked histories and marginalized figures or groups. In her landmark Import/Export Funk Office (1992–93), Renée Green presented books, magazines, photographs, cassette tapes, videotaped interviews, and other source materials taken from both her library and that of German cultural critic Diedrich Diederichsen, creating an extensive audiovisual archive of international hip-hop and African diasporic culture in the United States and Germany. Hal Foster termed this tendency “an archival impulse,” looking at the works of Tacita Dean, Sam Durant, and Thomas Hirschhorn.

Another artistic approach entails questioning the authority and authenticity of archives by pointing out their inherent biases. Between 1989 and 2004, Walid Raad developed a collection of both found and fabricated materials—documents, notebooks, photographs, news clippings, interview transcripts, and videos—related to the Lebanese Civil War (1975–91). His archival displays, presented under the guise of an imaginary foundation named “The Atlas Group,” blend fact and fiction to deconstruct the truth claims of documentary media, and bespeak distrust of official narratives, while also exploring the links between history, memory, trauma, and fantasy.

ONE CAN SEE a variety of research-based approaches in the practices of numerous artists today, applied with varying degrees of success. Some critics have voiced skepticism of much research-based art currently in vogue. In a 2019 lecture at the Kunsthalle Wien, Claire Bishop decried many research-based artworks as “information overload” and mere “aggregation” without hierarchy or narrative in ways that are symptomatic of our “browsing” habits in the internet age.

While a number of artists have used research as a crucial component in large-scale works—Steyerl in her immersive installations, Hirschhorn in his sprawling “monuments” to various critical theorists—others favor a more understated mode: pared-back, subtle, and visually economical. These artists often start by researching objects, ideas, events, or sites, and pair their installations with detailed supplemental texts that make one reconsider the presented materials in light of what can’t immediately be seen, often intangible issues of historical context, social injustice, and the law.

Maria Eichhorn, a second-generation institutional critique artist, bridges that now-established approach with the practices of younger research-based artists. For the 1997 edition of Skulptur Projekte Münster, she used the production fee she received to purchase a plot of land near the center of the show’s host city. Declaring the vacant lot a public sculpture, she titled her project Acquisition of a plot, Tibusstraße, corner of Breul, communal district of Münster, plot 5, drawing attention to the site’s recent history: years prior, residents had mobilized to stop the building of luxury condominiums there, and formed a tenants association to protect the availability of affordable housing.

Eichhorn exhibited a copy of the plot’s purchase contract and deed in the Landesmuseum, alongside a booklet detailing her research into the origins of cities in Europe, the historical establishment of land registers and real property, and the problem of affordable housing in present-day Munster. Instead of installing a piece of decorative “plop art,” Eichhorn prompted visitors to reflect on the economic and social realities of everyday urban spaces and the conflict of public and private interests. At the end of the exhibition, the artist sold the plot back to the city and donated its resale value to the area’s tenants association.

More recently, Eichhorn has focused on goods unlawfully obtained by the German state. For her 2003 exhibition “Politics of Restitution” at the Lenbachhaus in Munich, she worked with historian Anja Heuss to research the provenance of 15 paintings in the Lenbachhaus’s art collection on permanent loan from the Federal Republic of Germany. After World War II and until 1962, the Allies sought to return art objects stolen by the Nazis; after that, the remaining 20,000 or so unclaimed items were declared state property. Heuss determined that 7 of the 15 paintings were likely stolen or forcibly taken from their Jewish owners. Eichhorn displayed these paintings so as to reveal the markings on the reverse that document how they changed hands over time. She also exhibited another painting in the Lenbachhaus’s collection that was formally restituted just a year earlier to the heirs of its original Jewish owner.

Chronicling how these paintings got to where they are begs a follow-up question: what other objects currently in public collections were wrongfully taken by the state? Eichhorn’s 2017 Documenta project built on her work at Lenbachhaus, but dealt more actively with restitution. In Kassel, she created a project called “The Rose Valland Institute,” to investigate the looting of all forms of Jewish-owned property, not just artworks, since 1933. Her multiroom installation centered around a towering shelf filled with books from the main public library in Berlin. A wall text claimed that the nearly 2,000 volumes on view were once owned by Jewish persons and unlawfully acquired by the municipal library in 1943. Eichhorn also displayed photos, auction records, inventory lists, and other documents related to the confiscation of Jewish-owned assets, artworks, books, and other material possessions, as well as a reference library of publications on these issues.

Viewers also learned from accompanying texts that the Rose Valland Institute is an actual functioning organization, based in the Neue Galerie in Kassel for the run of the exhibition (and now in Berlin), whose mission is to return the looted items to their rightful owners or their descendants. Eichhorn’s project provokes viewers to actively question how objects in the country’s public collections were acquired, and to make their own restitution claims or provide other pertinent information.

Like Eichhorn, Cameron Rowland displays found objects accompanied by detailed handouts that elucidate the dark histories the objects index. Rowland’s work often addresses racialized exploitation and its ongoing effects, such as a piece titled Assessment (2018) that comprises an 18th-century English grandfather clock once housed at a plantation in South Carolina, and three 19th-century receipts that show property taxes were collected on slaves, clocks, and livestock alike in slaveholding states.

At the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, Rowland displayed Assessment alongside used everyday objects—leaf blowers, a hedge trimmer, a stroller, and bicycles—placed casually around the gallery. These items were purchased at police auctions of goods taken through civil asset forfeiture, a legal proceeding in which law enforcement can seize without warrant property believed to be connected to illegal activity. Originating in the English Navigation Act of 1660 to maintain England’s monopoly on trade with its colonies and West Africa, civil asset forfeiture has since thrived in the United States. Today, it is practiced by police departments as well as federal agencies including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Astoundingly, Rowland notes in their text that in 2013, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, an agency under DHS, contributed $1 billion in seized property to the Treasury Forfeiture Fund.

Just as property taxes on slaves were used to fund state governments in the antebellum South, auction sales from civil asset forfeiture are used to fund the agencies that seize properties. Together, the objects in Rowland’s show link issues of property concerning enslaved and undocumented people to highlight the dispossession and profiteering that results when groups of people are denied the protections of citizenship.

Where Eichhorn has focused on restitution, Rowland spotlights reparations. For Disgorgement (2016), part of an exhibition at Artists Space in New York, Rowland established an entity called the Reparations Purpose Trust, evidenced by framed legal documents on view there. Through this trust, they purchased shares of the insurance company Aetna, Inc., which had once profited from issuing insurance policies on the lives of slaves to slaveowners. The trust is to hold these company shares until the US government passes a law to make financial reparations for slavery, at which point the trust will dissolve and give its shares to the federal agency responsible for making the payments.

Where Rowland has focused on reparations, Gala Porras-Kim proposes mediation as a form of redress. In her project “Precipitation for an Arid Landscape” (2022), first presented at Amant in Brooklyn, she displayed works centered on Maya objects collected by the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University. In several large drawings, collectively titled “Offerings for the Rain at the Peabody Museum,” she depicts objects found in the Chichén Itzá cenote, a sacred Maya sinkhole in Mexico. These objects were originally deposited as offerings to Chaac, the Maya god of rain, lightning, and thunder, but between 1904 and 1911, the American diplomat and archaeologist Edward H. Thompson dredged them up.

A circular enclosure in the center of the gallery displayed photographs, documents, letters, newspaper clippings, and other publications from the Peabody archives and elsewhere, enabling viewers to learn about the troubling circumstances that brought the objects into the museum. Thompson purchased property around the cenote in order to access it before smuggling the artifacts into the US; an 1897 Mexican law made exporting antiquities illegal.

In a framed letter to the Peabody Museum’s director, part of a work titled Mediating with the Rain (2021–), Porras-Kim points out that the desiccated condition of the Chaac objects is at odds with their intended wet state. The objects were meant to remain in the cenote, where they had been preserved in water. Exposure to air and the excessive dryness of the museum’s climate-controlled storage rooms have permanently changed their physical composition. Now, she notes, the objects are “just dust particles held together through conservation methods.” Porras-Kim suggests opening a dialogue on how the objects could at least regain what she calls their “dignitary interests” and thus be spiritually restituted in some form. One idea she has proposed is to designate the objects as owned by the rain and “on loan” to the museum.

In combining artistic research and institutional critique, artists like Porras-Kim and the others surveyed here are critically interrogating the institutions thought to be arbiters of authority. In other words, they are researching research to question the norms of knowledge production and to challenge the status quo. Rather than conducting investigations in order to present conclusive results, they unsettle and expand how we can see the world with all its inglorious pasts.

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Home » Artistic Research – Methods, Types and Examples

Artistic Research – Methods, Types and Examples

Table of Contents

Artistic Research

Definition:

Artistic Research is a mode of inquiry that combines artistic practice and research methodologies to generate new insights and knowledge. It involves using artistic practice as a means of investigation and experimentation, while applying rigorous research methods to examine and reflect upon the process and outcomes of the artistic practice.

Types of Artistic Research

Types of Artistic Research are as follows:

Practice-based Research

This type of research involves the creation of new artistic works as part of the research process. The focus is on the exploration of artistic techniques, processes, and materials, and how they contribute to the creation of new knowledge.

Research-led practice

This type of research involves the use of academic research methods to inform and guide the creative process. The aim is to investigate and test new ideas and approaches to artistic practice.

Practice-led Research

This type of research involves using artistic practice as a means of exploring research questions. The aim is to develop new insights and understandings through the creative process.

Transdisciplinary Research

This type of research involves collaboration between artists and researchers from different disciplines. The aim is to combine knowledge and expertise from different fields to create new insights and perspectives.

Research Through Performance

This type of research involves the use of live performance as a means of investigating research questions. The aim is to explore the relationship between the performer and the audience, and how this relationship can be used to create new knowledge.

Participatory Research

This type of research involves collaboration with communities and stakeholders to explore research questions. The aim is to involve participants in the research process and to create new knowledge through shared experiences and perspectives.

Data Collection Methods

Artistic research data collection methods vary depending on the type of research being conducted and the artistic discipline being studied. Here are some common methods of data collection used in artistic research:

Artistic production: One of the most common methods of data collection in artistic research is the creation of new artistic works. This involves using the artistic practice itself as a method of data collection. Artists may create new works of art, performances, or installations to explore research questions and generate data.
Interviews : Artists may conduct interviews with other artists, scholars, or experts in their field to collect data. These interviews may be recorded and transcribed for further analysis.
Surveys and questionnaires : Surveys and questionnaires can be used to collect data from a larger sample of people. These can be used to collect information about audience reactions to artistic works, or to collect demographic information about artists.
Observation: Artists may also use observation as a method of data collection. This can involve observing the audience’s reactions to a performance or installation, or observing the process of artistic creation.
Archival research : Artists may conduct archival research to collect data from historical sources. This can involve studying the work of other artists, analyzing historical documents or artifacts, or studying the history of a particular artistic practice or discipline.
Experimental methods : In some cases, artists may use experimental methods to collect data. This can involve manipulating variables in an artistic work or performance to test hypotheses and generate data.

Data Analysis Methods

some common methods of data analysis used in artistic research:

Interpretative analysis : This involves a close reading and interpretation of the artistic work, performance or installation in order to understand its meanings, themes, and symbolic content. This method of analysis is often used in qualitative research.
Content analysis: This involves a systematic analysis of the content of artistic works or performances, with the aim of identifying patterns, themes, and trends in the data. This method of analysis is often used in quantitative research.
Discourse analysis : This involves an analysis of the language and social contexts in which artistic works are created and received. It is often used to explore the power dynamics, social structures, and cultural norms that shape artistic practice.
Visual analysis: This involves an analysis of the visual elements of artistic works, such as composition, color, and form, in order to understand their meanings and significance.
Statistical analysis: This involves the use of statistical techniques to analyze quantitative data collected through surveys, questionnaires, or experimental methods. This can involve calculating correlations, regression analyses, or other statistical measures to identify patterns in the data.
Comparative analysis: This involves comparing the data collected from different artistic works, performances or installations, or comparing the data collected from artistic research to data collected from other sources.

Artistic Research Methodology

Artistic research methodology refers to the approach or framework used to conduct artistic research. The methodology used in artistic research is often interdisciplinary and may include a combination of methods from the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Here are some common elements of artistic research methodology:

Research question : Artistic research begins with a research question or problem to be explored. This question guides the research process and helps to focus the investigation.
Contextualization: Artistic research often involves an examination of the social, historical, and cultural contexts in which the artistic work is produced and received. This contextualization helps to situate the work within a larger framework and to identify its significance.
Reflexivity: Artistic research often involves a high degree of reflexivity, with the researcher reflecting on their own positionality and the ways in which their own biases and assumptions may impact the research process.
Iterative process : Artistic research is often an iterative process, with the researcher revising and refining their research question and methods as they collect and analyze data.
Creative practice: Artistic research often involves the use of creative practice as a means of generating data and exploring research questions. This can involve the creation of new works of art, performances, or installations.
Collaboration: Artistic research often involves collaboration with other artists, scholars, or experts in the field. This collaboration can help to generate new insights and perspectives, and to bring diverse knowledge and expertise to the research process.

Examples of Artistic Research

There are numerous examples of artistic research across a variety of artistic disciplines. Here are a few examples:

Music : A composer may conduct artistic research by exploring new musical forms and techniques, and testing them through the creation of new works of music. For example, composer Steve Reich conducted artistic research by studying traditional African drumming techniques and incorporating them into his minimalist compositions.
Visual art: An artist may conduct artistic research by exploring the history and techniques of a particular medium, such as painting or sculpture, and using that knowledge to create new works of art. For example, painter Gerhard Richter conducted artistic research by exploring the history of photography and using photographic techniques to create his abstract paintings.
Dance : A choreographer may conduct artistic research by exploring new movement styles and techniques, and testing them through the creation of new dance works. For example, choreographer William Forsythe conducted artistic research by studying the physics of movement and incorporating that knowledge into his choreography.
Theater : A theater artist may conduct artistic research by exploring the history and techniques of a particular theatrical style, such as physical theater or experimental theater, and using that knowledge to create new works of theater. For example, director Anne Bogart conducted artistic research by studying the teachings of the philosopher Jacques Derrida and incorporating those ideas into her approach to theater.
Film : A filmmaker may conduct artistic research by exploring the history and techniques of a particular genre or film style, and using that knowledge to create new works of film. For example, filmmaker Agnès Varda conducted artistic research by exploring the feminist movement and incorporating feminist ideas into her films.

When to use Artistic Research

some situations where artistic research may be useful:

Developing new artistic works: Artistic research can be used to inform and inspire the development of new works of art, music, dance, theater, or film.
Exploring new artistic techniques or approaches : Artistic research can be used to explore new techniques or approaches to artistic practice, and to test and refine these approaches through creative experimentation.
Investigating the historical and cultural contexts of artistic practice: Artistic research can be used to investigate the social, cultural, and historical contexts of artistic practice, and to identify the ways in which these contexts shape and influence artistic works.
Evaluating the impact and significance of artistic works : Artistic research can be used to evaluate the impact and significance of artistic works, and to identify the ways in which they contribute to broader cultural, social, and political issues.
Advancing knowledge and understanding in artistic fields: Artistic research can be used to advance knowledge and understanding in artistic fields, and to generate new insights and perspectives on artistic practice.

Purpose of Artistic Research

The purpose of artistic research is to generate new knowledge and understanding through a rigorous and creative investigation of artistic practice. Artistic research aims to push the boundaries of artistic practice and to create new insights and perspectives on artistic works and processes.

Artistic research serves several purposes, including:

Advancing knowledge and understanding in artistic fields: Artistic research can contribute to the development of new knowledge and understanding in artistic fields, and can help to advance the study of artistic practice.
Creating new artistic works and forms: Artistic research can inspire the creation of new artistic works and forms, and can help artists to develop new techniques and approaches to their practice.
Evaluating the impact and significance of artistic works: Artistic research can help to evaluate the impact and significance of artistic works, and to identify their contributions to broader cultural, social, and political issues.
Enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration: Artistic research often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, and can help to foster new connections and collaborations between artists, scholars, and experts in diverse fields.
Challenging assumptions and pushing boundaries: Artistic research can challenge assumptions and push the boundaries of artistic practice, and can help to create new possibilities for artistic expression and exploration.

Characteristics of Artistic Research

Some key characteristics that can be used to describe artistic research:

Creative and interdisciplinary: Artistic research is creative and interdisciplinary, drawing on a wide range of artistic and scholarly disciplines to explore new ideas and approaches to artistic practice.
Experimental and process-oriented : Artistic research is often experimental and process-oriented, involving creative experimentation and exploration of new techniques, forms, and ideas.
Reflection and critical analysis : Artistic research involves reflection and critical analysis of artistic practice, with a focus on exploring the underlying processes, assumptions, and concepts that shape artistic works.
Emphasis on practice-led inquiry : Artistic research is often practice-led, meaning that it involves a close integration of creative practice and research inquiry.
Collaborative and participatory: Artistic research often involves collaboration and participation, with artists, scholars, and experts from diverse fields working together to explore new ideas and approaches to artistic practice.
Contextual and socially engaged : Artistic research is contextual and socially engaged, exploring the ways in which artistic practice is shaped by broader social, cultural, and historical contexts, and engaging with issues of social and political relevance.

Advantages of Artistic Research

Artistic research offers several advantages, including:

Innovation : Artistic research encourages creative experimentation and exploration of new techniques and approaches to artistic practice, leading to innovative and original works of art.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Artistic research often involves collaboration between artists, scholars, and experts from diverse fields, fostering interdisciplinary exchange and the development of new perspectives and ideas.
Practice-led inquiry : Artistic research is often practice-led, meaning that it involves a close integration of creative practice and research inquiry, leading to a deeper understanding of the creative process and the ways in which it shapes artistic works.
Critical reflection: Artistic research involves critical reflection on artistic practice, encouraging artists to question assumptions and challenge existing norms, leading to new insights and perspectives on artistic works.
Engagement with broader issues : Artistic research is contextual and socially engaged, exploring the ways in which artistic practice is shaped by broader social, cultural, and historical contexts, and engaging with issues of social and political relevance.
Contribution to knowledge : Artistic research contributes to the development of new knowledge and understanding in artistic fields, and can help to advance the study of artistic practice.

Limitations of Artistic Research

Artistic research also has some limitations, including:

Subjectivity : Artistic research is subjective, meaning that it is based on the individual perspectives, experiences, and creative decisions of the artist, which can limit the generalizability and replicability of the research.
Lack of formal methodology : Artistic research often lacks a formal methodology, making it difficult to compare or evaluate different research projects and limiting the reproducibility of results.
Difficulty in measuring outcomes: Artistic research can be difficult to measure and evaluate, as the outcomes are often qualitative and subjective in nature, making it challenging to assess the impact or significance of the research.
Limited funding: Artistic research may face challenges in securing funding, as it is still a relatively new and emerging field, and may not fit within traditional funding structures.
Ethical considerations: Artistic research may raise ethical considerations related to issues such as representation, consent, and the use of human subjects, particularly when working with sensitive or controversial topics.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Art Research Paper Topics

25 May, 2022

14 minutes read

Author: Elizabeth Brown

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

At first glance, art seems an extensive subject with many aspects to investigate. But sometimes, it’s overwhelming to understand and contextualize art epochs, movements, and representatives in their art history research paper. It is challenging to sort out what art research paper topics are worth investigating. Writing about art and especially finding the appropriate art research topics is more complicated than making art.

Therefore, in this article, you will explore compelling ideas for your future art research paper topics. Move on and get inspired to create a unique research theme that will bring you academic success.

Choosing the Right Art Research Paper Topics

You can find an abundance of art research paper topics on the internet, but it’s not guaranteed they are good for you. There are certain things to consider before choosing the art paper theme and start working on it. Take a look at tips on how to select the best art history research paper topic and compile a high-quality study.

Select the Art Category

People have been creating aesthetic objects and experiences and sharing their masterpieces for centuries. There are traditionally distinguished seven branches of art, including literature, music, architecture, the graphic arts, the visual arts, the plastic arts, the decorative arts, and the performing arts. So before browsing art topics, choose the art branch you will further research.

Decide What to Study

Sound art research topics do not cover everything in one paper. It’s necessary to define what art aspect will be subjected to research in the study. Students can select an artistic movement like romanticism, realism, baroque, classicism, or surrealism for the most interesting art topics. It’s also possible to research an art epoch, a prominent artist, or a piece of art.

Brainstorm Ideas

For choosing the best theme of possible art research paper topics, come up with ideas and do prior research. Find out what is relevant to cover for today, what has not been investigated thoroughly, whether there are enough sources for references, and if the art research paper theme you want to explore corresponds to your course plan and instructions.

What Are the Most Engaging Art Topics

Every art movement and period has outstanding representatives and fascinating artworks worth exploring. Your art history research paper will be interesting once you like what you do and can present it clearly to the readers. Art seems complex, but if you are well aware of the subject, you can do compelling research on different art topics. Students with no experience in writing art research papers can get inspiration from the list of the most engrossing art topics.

So you can write about using art as propaganda and what messages hide in artworks or sequential art. Deciding what you are absorbing art research paper topics is up to you as it’s only you who can engage the audience.

Artist Bibliography Art Topics

If you are not well knowledgeable about art and want to make a high-quality art research paper, this topic is right for you. You can choose the artist whose works attract you the most and tell in your research about their life and becoming an artist. Students are free to choose art topics on influential art representatives or unknown craters with engaging bibliography.

In order to make your art history research paper not simply listing pieces of artworks of a specific author, you should focus on investigating a distinct feature of these works. Thus, your history research paper topics may touch upon sensual creations by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Parisian life in Edgar Degas’s works, or the influence of celebrities on Andy Warhol’s art.

Art History Research Paper Topics

Writing an art history research paper is a great choice for students not willing to dive into art symbols and details. With a variety of art history research paper topics, you can easily find the best option or create your own theme. Students can benefit from numerous studies and literature sources to do original research. So potential art research paper topics focus on Ancient Egyptian Art, Greek Art, Christian Roman Art, Celtic Art, or Modern Art.

The ideas for your history research paper topics include defining similarities and differences between art styles at a specific time in the history of art development. It’s possible to research the influence of beauty, wars, and historical events on ancient and modern art.

Provocative Art Research Paper Topics at Different Periods

Every art epoch has introduced something new to art history and shaped the development of modern art movements. There are many decent artworks that activate thinking and aim at solving some problems. You can contemplate these masterpieces and their creators in thought-provoking art research paper topics. Touch in your art research paper on specific periods in art development.

Contemporary art topics are considered the most provocative as tragic global events and revolutionary personalities transformed the perception of the world and art. So here, we will focus on art research topics of the last three centuries.

Papers on the 18th-Century Art

The 18th-century history research paper topics are predominantly characterized by the shift to Rococo and Neoclassicism. This century was marked by revolutions, archaeological discoveries, industrial changes, and the era of Enlightenment. So the 18th-century art research topics feature great masterpieces and new ideas. Artists mix classical elements with brand new genres generating impressive pieces of art.

You can feature in your art research paper prominent artists of that epoch, including Filippo Juvarra, Luigi Vanvitelli, Jacques-Louis David, and Antonio Canova. It will also be a great idea for art topics to analyze their creations paying attention to preserving classical traditions, mythological subjects, urban views, landscapes, revolution scenes, etc.

Papers on the 19th-Century Art

Modern art developed in the 19th century due to the successful industrial revolution, social movements, Marxism, and feminism. The history research paper topics on the art of that century can cover artistic styles. Tell in your art research paper about Romanticism, Neoclassicism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Art Nouveau, all developed in the 19th.

Each style has its prominent artists whose masterpieces deserve research. Cover provocative works by Édouard Manet in your 19th-century art research paper. In your art research paper topics you can touch upon Francisco de Goya, Henri Rousseau, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and others.

Papers on the 20th-Century Art

The 20th-century ideas for art research paper topics are multiple and diverse due to the emergence of artistic movements and global changes. You can tell a lot in an art research paper about Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, Fauvism, Minimalism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Photorealism. Among thought-provoking artists of that time we can name Stanley Kubrick, Dan Flavin, Joseph Beuys, Jacques Duval-Brasseur, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jasper Johns.

The history research paper topics can cover how contemporary art rejects traditional aesthetic values, experimenting with forms, materials, techniques, and processes. Win-win ideas for art research topics are to take a fresh look at Kazimir Malevich’s Black Square or Salvador Dalí’s Metamorphosis of Narcissus.

Major Eras in the Arts

The history of art started dozens of thousands of years ago. Each art period is complex and has many to tell about, lasting from 30 to 300 years. In their art research paper, a student can focus on the art epoch of their interest and research its development, features, artists, and creations. The Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, Cubism, Symbolism, Expressionism, and other art eras can find their place in students’ art research paper topics.

Let’s find major art epochs and their brief descriptions you can inspire from for your art research paper.

Flamboyant Baroque

Writing an art research paper on the Baroque era (1590-1760) is an engaging endeavor that will make you dive into the magnificent world of princes and kings. Your Baroque art research paper topics may refer to man as the central power. Students can explore in history research paper topics the role of opposites: light and dark, warm and cold, good and evil in that era. Art was a way to show power and wealth, so investigate this aspect in art research topics.

Sensual Romanticism

Your art research paper on romanticism may be focused on the emotiveness and sublime imagery of the art era. Romanticism (1790-1850) art research paper topics should highlight the role of nature and subconsciousness in masterpieces of that time. Students can choose art research topics that explore influential German, English, and French painters of the Romanticism period. They interpreted the world differently and wanted to oppose the stern nature of classicism.

You can study romanticism literature and music in your history research paper topics.

Fleeting Impressionism

In the art research paper devoted to the Impressionist era of modern art, it’s possible to research the phenomenon of art for art’s sake. Impressionism mostly manifested itself in painting due to prominent artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Vincent van Gough. Impressionism (1850-1895) art research paper topics can be dedicated to music and ballet. There’s much to investigate in history research paper topics, so choose the art category, your favorite artist, and their impressive masterpieces.

Research Topics on Various Cultures

Art and culture are tightly interconnected as every culture develops its unique art forms. Thus, your art research paper may feature Aboriginal, Aztec, China, African, Indian, and Japanese cultures. Students can analyze in their art research topics how these cultures influenced art development. The interesting art topics focus on the investigation of the role of cultural identity on art creation. For example, you can feature Japanese calligraphy, traditional Chinese clothing, Indian cinema, African tribal art, and more in your art research paper topics.

Research Topics on the Art of Photography

Photography is a fascinating art category for your art research paper. This type of visual art appeared back in the 19th century and still amazes people today. In your art history research paper, you can explore the role of photography in history, art, and everyday life. Researchers can investigate how digital technologies popularized photography.

Students can research the most prominent photographers of all times like Richard Avedon, Robert Frank, and Man Ray and their creations in art research topics. It’s possible to research street, war, nature, and portrait photography. A creative idea for art research paper topics is exploring the psychological dimension of the art of photography.

Research Topics on Art Therapy

Art therapy is one of the most interesting art topics for investigation. It is possible to study the origin and applications of art therapy in the art history research paper. In their art research paper, a student can focus on how art therapy helps overcome various diseases and improve mental health. You can write an art research paper on the healing power of color and music.

Also, research what pieces of art prove to be the most effective in helping people with disabilities, psychological traumas, or autism. Students can touch upon prominent art therapists and their achievements.

How Our Paper Writing Service Can Help You

Students resort to essay writer assistance for many reasons, and the writing service’s market suggests many options to choose from. At our company, we provide professional academic writing services of different types on any topic you need and meet strict deadlines. Our team of certified authors can create a unique art research paper on any theme you need.

Writers have degrees in Fine Arts and Art & Design programs, ensuring high-quality art history research paper works. Contact us if the deadline for your art research paper is approaching and you do not know what topic to choose and what to start from. We will help you write an impressive paper and get an excellent mark!

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Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Research-based Art Practices: Context and Framework

First Online: 06 October 2022

Cite this chapter

Caroline Ha Thuc 2

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Located at the interstices between art and academic forms of knowledge, research-based art practices are very diverse both in their research methodologies and in their artistic forms. This chapter identifies their main features and their specificities in the Southeast Asian context. As they derive from the artists’ desire to learn, generate and disseminate knowledge, these practices develop against the backdrop of the larger debate that questions the paradigms of today’s systems of knowledge, and they contribute to it. In the region, however, the epistemological issue is at the same time more complex and more urgent: the Western system of knowledge production is not only challenged for what it is, but also for what it has been, and for its persistent legacy, that still shapes the current regional institutional frameworks. This influence is juxtaposed to a traditional and local system of knowledge that has long been neglected, and to local authoritarian systems that continuously reconfigure these previous models according to various political agendas. Ultimately, research-based art practices propose original conceptions of art and knowledge in which cognition and aesthetics mutually converge, giving rise to emancipatory modes of knowledge production and to innovative languages of art. They do not produce new sets of dogma, but initiate dialogues rendered even more necessary by the indeterminacy thus created. This larger and more open framework leaves to the viewer the responsibility to re-appropriate and consolidate the new forms of knowledge it generates

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Serge Lasvignes’ quote comes from the press release covering the 2017 Marcel Duchamp Prize published by ADIAF on October 16, 2017.

Cotter Lucy, “Reclaiming Artistic Research—First Thoughts…” MaHKUscript: Journal of Fine Art Research , 2(1) no 1 (2017): 1–6.

Constable John, “Lecture notes, May 26 & June 16 1836,” cited in Artists on Art, ed. Robert Goldwater & Marco Treves (London: John Murray, 1985), 270–273 in Frayling Christopher, “Research in Art and Design,” Royal College of Art Research Papers 1(1) (1993/94): 4.

On the subject, see in particular Foster Hal, The Return of the Real Art and Theory at the End of the Century (United States: MIT Press Cambridge, 1996); Schneider Arnd and Wright Christopher, Between Art and Anthropology (Berg 2010); Rutten Kriss, “Art Ethnography and practice-led research,” Critical Arts 30 no.3 (2016): 295–306.

See Derrida Jacques, Archive Fever, a Freudian impression (The University of Chicago Press Book, 1996); Foster Hal, “An Archive Impulse,” The MIT Journals 110 (2004): 3–22; EnwezorOkui, Archive Fever: Uses of the Document in Contemporary Art (Gottingen, Germany: Steidle 2008). Merewether Charles (ed.), The Archive (Cambridge: MIT Press, 2006).

See Thomson Nato, Experimental Geography: Radical Approaches to Landscape, Cartography and Urbanism (Brooklyn: Independent Curators International and Melville House, 2008); Watson Ruth, “Mapping and contemporary art,” The cartographic journal n°4 Art & Cartography special issue vol. 46 (2009): 293–307; Harmon Katharine, The Map As Art, Contemporary Artists Explore Cartography (Princeton: Princeton Architectural Press, 2009); Wood Denis, Rethinking the Power of Maps (New York London: The Guilford Press, 2010).

See for example Sutherland and Acord’s analysis of the production of “experiential knowledge” in the practice of composer Gayle Young and visual artist Tino Sehgal. Sutherland Ian and Acord Sophia Krzys, “Thinking with art: From situated knowledge to experiential knowing,” Journal of Visual Art Practices 6(2) (October 2007): 125–140.

MäkeläMaarit, NimkulratNithikul et al., “On reflecting and making in artistic research,” Journal of Research Practice , Vol. 7 Issue1 Article E1, (2011): chap. 2

Cazeaux Clive, Art, Research, Philosophy (London and New York: Routledge 2017).

Frayling Christopher, “Research in art and design,” Royal College of Art Research Papers 1(1) 1993:5.

Frayling, “Research in art and design,” ibid., 5.

Cazeaux Art, Research, Philosophy , ibid., 34.

See in particular Bush, “Artistic research and the poetics of knowledge,” ibid.; Borgdorff Henk, “The Conflict of the Faculties: Perspectives on Artistic Research and Academia,” (PhD diss., Amsterdam: Leiden University Press 2012).

Cazeaux, Art, Research, Philosophy , ibid., 1.

The debate is currently expanding the framework of Europe: in China, the first artists researchers received their PhD in 2015, “signaling official recognition by the art academy system in China of research-based practice as a form of knowledge production.” See the seminar Between Knowing and Unknowing: Research in-and-through Art organized at the Guangdong Times Museum in China in 2015, curated by Nikita Yingqian Cai. In their presentation, the curator notes that nevertheless, “discussions of “artistic research” and “research-based practice” are still rare” in China.

See in particular Marks Dan, “Ethnography and Ethnographic Film: From Flaherty to Asch and after,” American Anthropologist 97(2) (Jun. 1995): 339–347.

Steyerl cites Peter Weiss 1975 novel that examines these movements, Aesthetics of Resistance , and observes the German writer’s use of the term “artistic research”to depict them. Steyerl Hito, “Aesthetics of Resistance? Artistic Research as Discipline and Conflict,” MaHKUzine 8 , (winter 2010): 31–37. http://eipcp.net/transversal/0311/steyerl/en . Weiss Peter, Aesthetics of Resistance, trans. Joachim Neugrosschel (Duke University Press, 2005).

Factography is an aesthetic genre created in Russia in the 1920 which consisted in creating storytelling based partially on truth (facts). See in particular Fore Devin, “The Operative Word in Soviet Factography” October The MIT Press Journals N°118 (2006):95–131.

Steyerl Hito, “Aesthetics of Resistance? Artistic Research as Discipline and Conflict,” MaHKUzine 8 , (winter 2010): 31–37. http://eipcp.net/transversal/0311/steyerl/en .

See for instance Chris Marker’s films. More on the essay film see in particular Corrigan Timothy, The Essay Film: From Montaigne, after Marker ( Oxford University Press, 2011).

A history of documentary theatre and its evolution towards contemporary forms can be found in: Magris Erica and Picon-Vallin Béatrice, ed., Les Théâtresdocumentaires , (Montpellier: Deuxième époque, 2019).

See for example American photographer Allan Sekula, Cuban American feminist theorist and artist Coco Fusco, American conceptual artist and philosopher Adrian Piper or German artist and theorist Hito Steyerl.

Clark John, Modern Asian Art (Honolulu, United States: University of Hawai’i Press, 1998), 283–289.

Ashley Thompson, for example, introduces the idea of an “ethnographic impulse” in Cambodian contemporary practices but she includes in the trend all practices involved with traditional material (for instance working with rattan as does SopheapPich), which considerably enlarges this social science field. See Thompson, Ashley, “Emergenc(i)es: the Auto-ethnographic Impulse in Contemporary Cambodian Art,” in Essays on Art in Southeast Asia: Charting Thoughts , ed. Low Sze Wee and Patrick Flores (Singapore: National Gallery Singapore, 2017), 293–303; Erin Gleeson observes that Cambodian artists are “assuming the role of rescue archaeologists” in Gleeson Erin, Connect:Phnom Penh: Rescue Archaeology: Contemporary Art and Urban Change in Cambodia. ( Berlin, Germany: The Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations, 2013), 12.

ChotpraditThanavi, “A Dark Spot on a Royal Space: The Art of the People’s Party and the Politics of Thai (Art) History,” Southeast of Now , Vol.1 No.1 (March 2017):135.

Woon Tien Wei, “Still, Here Somehow: Artists and Cultural Activism in Singapore’s Renaissance,” On Curating Issue 35, (2017):16.

Taylor Nora A. “Re-authorizing images of the Vietnam War: Dinh Q Lê’s “Light and Belief” installation at dOCUMENTA (13) and the role of the artist as historian,” Southeast Asia Research SOAS University London Vol 25(1) (2017):47–61.

Taylor Nora A. & Zitzewitz Karin, “History as Figure of Thought in Contemporary Art in South and Southeast Asia,” Art Journal , 77:4, (2018):46.

Yap June, RETROSPECTIVE: A Historiographical Aesthetic in Contemporary Singapore and Malaysia (London: Lexington Books, 2016), 12.

From the artist’s website Available at: http://www.takusno.com/bio/ Accessed Sep. 16, 2019.

Interview with the artist over the phone, 4 September 2019.

E-mail interview with the artist, 30 September 2019.

McNay Anna, “Jompet Kuswidananto: “I am dealing with a culture that is never really fixed,” Studio International , Dec. 12, 2015. https://www.studiointernational.com/index.php/jompet-kuswidananto-interview-order-and-after-sonica-2015 .

Interview with the artist over the phone, 28 May 2019.

“I question the obligation to classify and denominate genres, segregating poetry, fictions, history, documents, and visual arts. Mulling over these terminological divisions, I wish to construe a realm of works that are interconnected and diverse in styles and materials, by means of which genres can coexist in a dreamlike, democratic utopia.” Nguyen Phan Thao, Poetic Amnesia , catalogue of the exhibition (Ho Chi Minh City: The Factory Contemporary Arts Centre, 2017), 17.

See for instance Foucault Michel, The Archaeology of Knowledge and the Discourse on Language (New York: Pantheon Books, 1972 [1969]), Said Edward W., Orientalism (London: Penguin Group, 2003[1978]); Haraway Donna, “Situated Knowledges: The Science Question in Feminism and the Privilege of Partial Perspective,” Feminist Studies 14(3)1988: 575–599; Bhabha Homi K., The Location of culture (London, New York: Routledge, 1994); Mignolo Walter D. “Epistemic Disobedience,” Theory, Culture & Society SAGE 26(7–8) 2009. For a history of postcolonialism and notably of the formation of postcolonial theory see for instance Young Robert, Postcolonialism: An historical introduction (Oxford: Wiley- Blackwell, 2001).

Gibbons Michael, Limoges Camille, Nowotny Helga, Schwartzman Simon, Scott Peter and Trow Martin, The new production of knowledge: the dynamics of science and research in contemporary societies . London: Sage, 1994).

This thesis has been much debated among scholars and remains controversial. From the perspective of research-based art practices, though, it highlights the possibility for new research practices and modes of knowledge production to be recognised, including artistic ones.

Appadurai Arjun, “The Right to Research,” Globalisation,Societies and Education 4(2) (2006):176.

Endres Kirsten W. and Lauser Andrea, ed., Engaging the spirit world: popular beliefs and practices in modern Southeast Asi a (New York: Bergahn Books, 2012), 2.

This was also the case in countries that have not been colonised. John Clark, for instance, notes that in Thailand, “modernization was based on an autocratic colonial model.” In Clark John, Modern Asian Art (Honolulu, United States: University of Hawai’i Press, 1998), 161.

See in particular Patel Sujata, “Beyond divisions and towards internationalism: Social sciences in the twenty-first century, in The Social Sciences in the Asian Century , ed by Carol Johnson, Vera Mackie and Tessa Morris-Suzuki, 51–63. ANU Press 2015.

In fact, the EFEO aimed at controlling the production of academic knowledge in the whole French Indochina. For an history of the modern mode of academic knowledge production in Cambodia since the colonial period see Peycam, Philippe M.F. Sketching an Institutional History of Academic Knowledge Production in Cambodia (1863–2009) Part I, Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia , Vol. 25, No. 2 (Oct. 2010): 153–177 and Peycam, Philippe M.F. Sketching an Institutional History of Academic Knowledge Production in Cambodia (1863–2009) Part II, Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia , Vol. 26, No. 1 (April 2011): 16–35.

Wang Gungwu, “Post-imperial Knowledge and Pre-Social Science in Southeast Asia”. In Goh Beng-Lan (Editor). Decentring and Diversifying Southeast Asian Studies: Perspectives from the Region . (Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, 2011), 60–80.

Sambrani Chaitanya, “An Experiment in Connectivity: From the ‘West Heavens’ to the ‘Middle Kingdom’, in Contemporary Asian Art and Exhibitions: Connectivities and World-making ed. Michelle Antoinette and Caroline Turner (Australia: Australian National University Press, 2014), 89–90.

Oscar Ho quoted by Turner Caroline and Webb Jen in Turner Caroline and Webb Jen, Art and human rights (Manchester: Manchester University Press, 2016), 2.

Gerke Solvay and Evers Hans-Dieter, Globalizing Local Knowledge: Social Science Research on Southeast-Asia, 1970–2000 SOJOURN: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia Vol.21, No1 (2006): 1–2.

In the field of history, for instance, Indian historian Dipeash Chakrabarty suggests that “insofar as the academic discourse of history—that is, “history” as a discourse produced at the institutional site of the university—is concerned, “Europe” remains the sovereign, theoretical subject of all histories.” As such, Cambodian or Indonesian history would only be a variation of the European master narrative. In Chakrabarty Dipesh, Provincializing Europe: Postcolonial Thought and Historical Difference (Princeton: Princeton UP, 2000), 27.

Mackie Vera, Johnson Carol and Morris-Suzuki Tessa, “Australia, the Asia-Pacific and the social sciences,” in The Social Sciences in the Asian Century , ed by Carol Johnson, Vera Mackie and Tessa Morris-Suzuki, 1–28. ANU Press 2015, 12–13.

Collis Maurice, Trials in Burma (London: Faber Finds, 1938), 216.

See in particular Myint Ni Ni, Burma’s Struggle against British Imperialism (1885–1895) (Rangoon: Universities Press, 1983) and Holliday Ian, Burma Redux (Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press, 2011). There have been, though, some Burmese chronicles and Burmese books dealing with the colonial era. See Chap. 6 of this present book.

Stoler Ann Laura, Duress. Imperial Durabilities in our Times (Durham, London: Duke University Press, 2016), 5.

See in particular Anderson Benedict, “Old State, New Society: Indonesia’s New Order in Comparative Historical Perspective,” The Journal of Asian Studies Vol. 42, No. 3 (May, 1983):477–496.

Artist’s statement for “The Death of a Tiger and Other Empty Seats,” courtesy of the artist.

A large part of the collection and publications, fictional and real, are available on the CTRS website created by the artist: https://www.tanahruncuk.org

More on the ritual, see especiallyBoomgaard Peter, “Tiger and Leopard Rituals at the Javanese Courts 1605–1906,” inBoomgaard Peter, Frontiers of Fear: Tigers and People in the Malay World, 1600–1950 (Yale University Press, 2001), 145–166.

The Dutch founded the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in 1602.

Interview with the artist in Taichung, Taiwan, Oct. 4 th , 2019.

Bloch Marc, Apologie pour l’histoire ou le métier d’historien (Paris: Armand Colin, 1960), 21.Quoted by Prost Antoine, Douzeleçons sur l’histoire (Twelve lessons on history ). (Paris: Seuil 2010), 70.

There is no clear definition of knowledge and theories of knowledge are multiple and diverse. This short definition is general enough to include the main ideas of truth and justification. On theories of knowledge, see in particular Russell Bertrand, On Our Knowledge of the External World (London and New York: Routledge Classics (1914), 2009).

Endres Kirsten W. and Lauser Andrea, ed., Engaging the spirit world: popular beliefs and practices in modern Southeast Asia (New York: Bergahn Books, 2012), 3.

This controversial idea has been aptly summarised by Phillip B. Wagoner. The debate opposes the idea that colonial knowledge was imposed on passive local colonisers and, on the other hand, the idea that, in reality, there have been convergences and mutual influences between the colonial system of knowledge production and the colonised. Wagoner Phillip B., “Precolonial Intellectuals and the Production of Colonial Knowledge,” Comparative Studies in Society and History 45(4) (Oct. 2003): 783.

Dipesh Chakrabarty, for example, questions the field of history and the possibility to include non-secular activities in its field. See Chakrabarty Dipesh, Provincializing Europe: Postcolonial Thought and Historical Difference (Princeton: Princeton UP, 2000).

Knauft Bruce M. “Critically Modern: An Introduction,” in Critically Modern. Alternatives, Alterities, Anthropologies, ed. B.M. Knauft. (Bloomington: Indiana UniversityPress, 2002), 5–6.

Wang Gungwu, “Post-imperial Knowledge and Pre-Social Science in Southeast Asia”. In Goh Beng-Lan (Editor). Decentring and Diversifying Southeast Asian Studies: Perspectives from the Region . Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, 2011, 72.

Goh Beng-Lan, “Disciplines and Areas Studies in the Global Age. Southeast Asian Reflections,” In Goh Beng-Lan (Editor). Decentring and Diversifying Southeast Asian Studies: Perspectives from the Region (Singapore: Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, 2011), 3. See also, Chua BengHuat, “Inter-Asia referencing and shifting frames of comparison,” in The Social Sciences in the Asian Century , ed. Johnson et al. 67–80 (ANU Press, 2015).

This title is purposely absurd and difficult to pronounce. It is a geometrical figure featuring eight triangular and eighteen square faces. It might refer at the same time to a rhombe at once a music instrument and a diamond, to a cube and to the geometrical figure of the octahedron.

The political situation of these countries makes these biases more salient but partial and socially constructed historical narratives are found everywhere. In the state of Texas, for instance, there is a debate over teaching American children that the United States was created with the intention of being a “Christian Nation,” and that all life on earth originates in God creation. Lynch Michael P., In Praise of Reason (Cambridge: MIT Press, 2014), 6.

See for example a recent analysis of today’s rise of authoritarianism in Southeast Asia in Cabasset Christine and Tran Thi Lien Claire, “Les défis d’un développement durable enAsie du Sud-Est (The challenges of a sustainable development in Southeast Asia),” in L’Asie du Sud-Est 2019—Bilan, enjeux et perspectives , ed. IRASEC (Paris: Les IndesSavantes 2019), 13–22.

Scott James C., The Art of Not Being Governed (New Haven & London: Yale University Press, 2009), 35.

In Vietnam, for instance, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam asked scholars to write what was called the New History in order to produce a consensus view of Vietnamese history. See Pelley Patricia Writing revolution: the new history in postcolonial Vietnam (PhD book Cornell University 1993).On the Indonesian New Order regime and history, see in particular Wood Michael, Official History in Modern Indonesia: New Order Perceptions and Counterviews (Brill, 2005).

Gerke Solvay and Evers Hans-Dieter, “Globalizing Local Knowledge: Social Science Research on Southeast-Asia, 1970–2000,” SOJOURN: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia Vol.21, No1 (2006): 2. For Myanmar, see for example Salem-Gervais Nicolas, and Metro Rosalie, “A Textbook Case of Nation-Building: The Evolution of History Curricula in Myanmar,” The Journal of Burma Studies 15, no. 1 (2012): 27–78. For Indonesia, see SuwignyoAgus, “Indonesian National History Textbooks after the New Order: What’s New under the Sun?” Bijdragen tot de Taal-, Land- enVolkenkunde , Vol. 170, No. 1 (2014):114–115.

ChotpraditThanavi, “A Dark Spot on a Royal Space: The Art of the People’s Party and the Politics of Thai (Art) History,” Southeast of Now , Vol.1 (1) (March 2017): 134.

AlagappaMuthiah. “The Nonstate Public Sphere in Asia: Dynamic, Growth, Institutionalisation Lag.” In Civil Society and Political Change in Asia: Expanding and Contracting Democratic Space edited by Alapagga, 455–477 (Stanford, California: Stanford University Press, 2004), 457–8.

There is no unique model of political system, and the normative Western conception of democracy is obviously debatable. Similarly, the universality of human rights is now debatable, as the 2012 ASEAN Human Rights Declaration has shown.

Chambers Paul and WaitoolkiatNapisa, “Thailand’s Thwarted Democratization,” Asian Affairs: An American Review , 47 (2020): 164.

Simpson Adam, Holliday Ian, Farrelly Nicholas (ed.). Handbook of Contemporary Myanmar (Routledge, 2017). The military took back power during a coup in Feb. 2021.

Reilly Benjamin, “Southeast Asia: in the shadow of China,” Journal of Democracy , Baltimore Vol.24 Iss.1 (Jan 2013): 156–164.

Strangio Sebastian, “The Media in Cambodia,” in The Handbook of Contemporary Cambodia ed. Brickell Katherine and Springer Simon (Routledge, 2017), 76.

BerenschotWard, Schulte NordholtHenk and Bakker Laurens, Citizenship and Democratization in Southeast Asia (Leiden: Brill, 2017), 12.

See for example, in Myanmar Aung-ThwinMaitrii, “The State” in Routledge Handbook of Contemporary Myanmar , ed. Adam Simpson et al., 15–24 (London: Routledge, 2017); for Cambodia, Strangio Sebastian, “The Media in Cambodia,” in The Handbook of Contemporary Cambodia , ed. Brickell Katherine and Springer Simon, 76–86 (London & New York Routledge, 2017). For Vietnam: MacLean Ken, The Government of Mistrust: Illegibility and Bureaucratic Power in Socialist Vietnam (University of Wisconsin Press, 2013).

The Cambodian Daily, Feb. 4, 2015 ( https://www.cambodiadaily.com/news/hun-sen-defends-proposed-areng-valley-dam-77352/ ).

Chateau Dominique, Épistémologie de l’esthétique (Epistemology of Aesthetics) (Paris:L’Harmattan, 2000), 140.

Pöppel Ernest and Bao Yan, “Three Modes of Knowledge as Basis for Intercultural Cognition and Communication: A Theoretical Perspective,” Culture and Neural Frames of Cognition and Communication , On Thinking 3 (Berlin Heidelberg: Springer-Verlag, Jan. 2011), 222.

Fagnart Laure, Leonard De Vinci à la Cour de France (Rennes: Presses Universitaires Rennes, 2019).

Chateau, Épistémologie de l’esthétique , ibid., 141.

Bruno Latour, for example, insists on the role of imagination in any scientific discovery and laboratory experiences, contributing to an expanded notion of scientific knowledge. Latour Bruno, “A Textbook Case Revisited—Knowledge as a mode of existence,”in Hackett, Edward J., Lynch Michael, Wajcman, Judy, Amsterdamska, Olga. The Handbook of Science and Technology Studies . (Third Edition, MIT Press2, 2007), 83–112.

Park Robert Ezra, “News as a Form of Knowledge: A Chapter in the Sociology of Knowledge,” American Journal of Sociology , Vol. 45, No. 5 (Mar. 1940):675. Park follows William James’s definition of knowledge in James William, The Principles of Psychology (New York: Henry Holt & Co, 1896), I, 221–222.

Park, “News as a Form of Knowledge: A Chapter in the Sociology of Knowledge,” ibid., 672.

Neurologists Pöppel and Bao distinguish three modes of knowledge that form a universal framework from which every culture can express and communicate: “explicit or verbal (saying, calling), implicit or action-oriented (creating, doing) and pictorial (seeing, recognizing).” See Pöppel and Bao, “Three Modes of Knowledge as Basis for Intercultural Cognition and Communication: A Theoretical Perspective,” ibid., 216.

These artists are Sven Augustijnen, Vincent Meessens, Zarina Bhimji, Renzo Martens and Pieter Hugo.

Demos T. J., Return to the Postcolony. Specters of Colonialism in Contemporary Art (Berlin: Sternberg Press, 2013), 9.

Demos, Return to the Postcolony. Specters of Colonialism in Contemporary Art , ibid., 8.

Senegal has been a French colony since the nineteenth century. It gained its independence in 1960.

See in particular Stoler Ann, “Sexual Affronts and Racial Frontiers: European Identities and the Cultural Politics of Exclusions in Colonial Southeast Asia,” Comparative Studies in Society and History , Vol 34 issue 3, July 1992: 514–551.

E-mail exchanges with the artist, Sept. 2019.

From a phone conversation with the artist, Sept. 14, 2020.

Young James O., Art and Knowledge (London, New York: Routledge 2001), 67. The Professor of philosophy does not consider research-based art practices butanalyses the cognitive value and functions of art in its larger definition, including music and literature.

Young, Art and Knowledge , ibid., 69.

The original crown cannot be seen by the public and is allegedly kept in the room where King Rama VIII was found dead in 1946. After his mysterious death, a new crown was probably made for the new King, yet, according to the artist, there is no evidence for this allegation. Rungjang plays with the rumors that surround this part of Thai history and implicitly questions the legitimacy of the crown as a symbol of power, that was once given to the French.

Taylor Nora A., “The Singapore Art Archive Project and the Institutions of Memory in Southeast Asia,” In Southeast Asia Spaces of the Curatorial ed. Ute Meta Bauer and Brigitte Oetker (Berlin: Sternberg Press, 2016),131.

Weber Max, “The Three Types of Legitimate Rule” Berkeley Publications in Society and Institutions 4, no. 1 (1958): 1–11.

Kuan Yung Teng,“Keeper of Singapore’s Heritage,” M News online magazine (Feb. 1 2017). Available at: https://mustsharenews.com/koh-nguang-how/ (Accessed Apr. 22, 2020).

Interview with the artist in Singapore, May 16 2019.

Taylor Nora A. “The Singapore Art Archive Project and the Institutions of Memory in Southeast Asia” In: Southeast Asia Spaces of the Curatorial ed. Ute Meta Bauer and Brigitte Oetker(Berlin: Sternberg Press 2016), 128.

Taylor Nora A. & Zitzewitz Karin “History as Figure of Thought in Contemporary Art in South and Southeast Asia”, Art Journal , 77:4, 2018 p.46.

Chung featured in the exhibition All the World’s Futures at the Arsenale curated by OkwuiEnwezor in the 2015 Venice Biennale.

M+ acquired the 2016 map HKSAR statistics on yearly arrivals and departures of V-refugees from 1975–1997 and 28 works on paper from the series flotsam and jetsam (2015–2016). See the press release published online: https://www.westkowloon.hk/en/the-authority/newsroom/m-of-west-kowloon-cultural-district-acquires-new-work-by-tiffany-chung-with-the-brown-family-annual-acquisition-fund/page/26 .

Presentation of the exhibition on the documenta website: https://www.documenta.de/en/retrospective/documenta11 . (Accessed June 25, 2020).

See in particular Gardner Anthony and Green Charles, “Post-North? Documenta11 and the Challenges of the “Global” Exhibition,” On Curating 33 (June2017): 109–121.

Phone interview with the artist, October 10, 2019.

Besides Charles Lim, the exhibition featured Vietnamese filmmaker and theorist Trinh T. Minh-ha and Indonesian artist Fiona Tan among 117 artists who both left their country of origin and live respectively in the United States and in the Netherlands.

See Chap. 7 the case study dedicated to this work.

Interview with the artist during our fieldtrip in the Areng Valley, October 2018.

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Compare and contrast Art Nouveau and Art Deco
The effects of art on the world

Difficult Art Research Paper Topics

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The concept of fashion in ancient Asian tribes
Egyptian art inside the pyramids
Analyze stained glass in Western Europe
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Discuss movement and rhythm in art

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College students should, of course, try to look for more complex topics to write their papers about. Here are some great art topics ideas for college students:

Who was Frida Kahlo?
Talk about the life and works of Francisco Goya
The importance of Georgia O’Keeffe’s art
Balance as a main principle of art
Discuss the history of printmaking
Talk about Medieval art

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The woman and child theme in African art
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An in-depth analysis of Kuba art
How can we decode abstract art?

Art Debate Paper Topics

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Leonardo Da Vinci and religious art
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What makes Claude Monet stand out?
Unity and variety in modern art

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Discuss Chris Ofili’s “The Holy Virgin Mary”
The controversial “Origin of the World” by Gustave Courbet
Talk about Marcel Duchamp as a controversial artist
What makes Yoko Ono a controversial artist?
The savage art of Gauguin

Modern Art Research Paper Topics

We know, discussing modern art in a research paper is not easy. However, the topic can make a huge difference. Here are some easy modern art research paper topics for you:

Artistic performances in modern art
The peculiarities of the Cubism movement
What is surrealism?
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What is Fantasy art?
Technology in modern art
Analyze a political cartoon
Discuss Cubism

Artist Biography Ideas

Writing an artist biography can get you a top grade very quickly. Researching a lesser known artist will also get you bonus points. Here are our best artist biography ideas:

Talk about the life and works of Frank Lloyd Wright
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African Art Ideas

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Discuss art in the Yaka and Suku tribes
Discuss art in Burkina Faso
Couples in African art
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The importance of art for ritual life in Africa
Analyze modern art in Zimbabwe
Art and socio-politics in Africa
Strangers in African art
Discuss Islamic arts in ancient Africa
Analyze art in Tanzania

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Talk about art in the Prehistoric epoch
Discuss ancient art
Art during the Hellenistic period
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Talk about prehistoric art in Europe
Art during the Mannerism period
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Art during the Mesopotamian age
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Discuss art during the Byzantine period

Renaissance Art Research Paper Topics

Yes, Renaissance art is not an easy subject. However, if you are a college or university student, you should give our renaissance art research paper topics a try:

Talk about peculiar altarpieces in the Renaissance period
What are Fresco cycles?
Talk about the secularism theme
The anatomy of the human being in art
An in-depth analysis of the linear perspective
Discuss realism in the Renaissance period
Uses of light in art
Landscape in Renaissance-era art works
Discuss the humanism theme
And in-depth look at rationalism in the Renaissance era

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Discuss the Surrealist movement
What makes a work of art abstract?
Signs of globalization in art
Compare and contrast the Gothic and Neo-Gothic movements
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Talk about the Bauhaus movement
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Photography As Art Ideas

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Using lighting effectively for photography
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Discuss 3 of the most famous photographs
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The effects of lenses on the image
How photography changed the face of art
Framing and timing techniques
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The many sues of lighting in a photography studio
Is war photography a form of art?
Expressing feelings with photos
The life and work of Alfred Stieglitz

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Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
Should graduate students be able to form unions?

What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
How does stress affect the body?
Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
What were the causes of the Civil War?
How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
What caused Hitler's rise to power?
Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
What are the pros and cons of fracking?
What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
How are black holes created?
Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
Has social media made people more or less connected?
What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

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With their unique mixes of varied contributions from Original Research to Review Articles, Research Topics unify the most influential researchers, the latest key findings and historical advances in a hot research area! Find out more on how to host your own Frontiers Research Topic or contribute to one as an author.

¿Qué Pasa Houston? Here are the events happening around town this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- T.G.I.F. ¿Que Pasa Houston? This weekend is full of music, art, wine, and activities for the kids.

The third annual Sugar Land Arts Fest is underway Saturday and Sunday with over 100 artists showcasing their work.

They will have a large beer and wine garden area with shaded seating and a massive array of music all weekend.

The arts fest takes place at the Smart Financial Center's plaza. Tickets are $10 and onsite parking is free.

Over at the Houston Botanic Garden, it's the annual Music in the Garden concert series.

Join in on this family-friendly afternoon of soulful roots music at the Bayou Blues Festival . Admission tickets are $15.

For news updates, follow Mayra Moreno on Facebook , X and Instagram .

Houston agency hosts inclusive Field Day for Autism Acceptance Month

Houston pediatric patients go to prom with community support

¿Qué Pasa Houston? Events happening around town this weekend

Houston's Art Car Parade was back in full force in downtown

Man charged in connection to woman's death at living facility: Records

3 high-dollar vehicles stolen on same night in Deer Park

5 minutes ago

Driver injured after rollover crash involving HPD officer, police say

Warm, humid weekend with a few stronger storms Sunday & Monday

3 hours ago

Cook charged with child porn weeks after allegedly defiling food

Security guard saves man shot in SW Houston club, suspect unknown

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Woman found dead in shallow grave struggled with addiction: Sister

Texans use 1st three 2024 picks on secondary, protection for Stroud

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180 Art Research Topics To Get Your Inspiration Started
The Best 125 Art Research Paper Topics for 2023
160 Outstanding Art History Thesis Topics to Focus On
100+ Art Research Paper Topics Ideas
Good Examples of Artist Research Pages
Good Examples of Artist Research Pages

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Arts-based research
Art Based Research
The Practice of Research: A Methodology for Practice-Based Research in the Arts
WHAT IS ARTISTIC RESEARCH? Or... WHEN IS RESEARCH ARTISTIC? SCIENCE/ART
Understanding the Value of Arts and Culture
Creative Research Methods

COMMENTS

136 Most Interesting Art Research Paper Topics
Here are some of the most exciting topics. Artistic Freedom vs. Censorship: Art in Nazi Germany. From Canvas to Camera: Photography as Art. Gothic Art in Medieval England. The Death of the Author: Barthes's Theory Debunked. The History of Abstract Expressionism. Art and Culture: An Intellectual History.
Artistic Significance, Creativity, and Innovation Using Art as Research
The artistic process allows for doing research to find questions, not only to find answers. Art-based research is more than examining the finished product hanging on a wall or witnessed on a stage. Art can provide the topic of research, the process of research and indeed the outcome of research (Prior 2018). Experimentation with the method and ...
250+ Research Paper Topics for Art Lovers
31 Architecture Research Paper Topics. 32 Theater Research Paper Ideas. 33 The Study of Photography as Research about Art. 34 Artist Biography Ideas. 34.1 Art Topics Ideas Base on the Artists of the 18th Century. 34.2 Artists of the 19th Century. Art has been a significant aspect of human civilization for centuries.
333 Art Research Paper Topics & Ideas
Modern Art Research Topics. Decoding Cubism: Understanding Picasso and Braque. Surrealism: An Investigation Into the World of Dreams. Expressionism: Manifestation of Emotions in Modern Art. Analyzing Futurism: Speed, Technology and the Modern World. Exploring Dadaism: A Reaction to World War I. Conceptual Art: Ideas Over Aesthetics.
180 Art Research Topics To Get Your Inspiration Started
Here are some advanced art topics you could try: The emergence of urban street art. Cubism in Pablo Picasso paintings. The life and works of Louise Bourgeois. Talk about the influence of the paranormal on art. An in-depth look at Aztec religious art. Talk about a primeval music instrument of your choice.
Arts-Based Research
Introduction. The term arts-based research is an umbrella term that covers an eclectic array of methodological and epistemological approaches. The key elements that unify this diverse body of work are: it is research; and one or more art forms or processes are involved in the doing of the research.How art is involved varies enormously. It has been used as one of several tools to elicit ...
Arts-Based Research
The aim in arts-based research is to use the arts as a method, a form of analysis, a subject, or all of the above, within qualitative research; as such, it falls under the heading of alternative forms of research gathering. It is used in education, social science, the humanities, and art therapy research.
Why Arts-Based Research?
Arts-based research involves the use of any art form at any point in the research process, i.e. as tools to generate, interpret, or communicate knowledge about diverse research topics (Knowles & Cole, 2008 ). It integrates artistic practice with research processes as a crucial way to understand lived experiences.
Investigating new areas of art-science practice-based research with the
Art and science are often seen as two oppositional disciplines with very separate ideas of what constitutes 'research', ... (Artistic Research and Technologies Labs) research centre. ART LABS is a world leading centre for ... and while this is true of any truly collaborative practice involving specialists from disciplines other than your ...
70 Top Art Research Paper Topics To Explore
Unusual Ancient Art History Paper Topics. Ancient art existed around 30,000 B.C.E. to 400 A.D. One can trace it back to the fertility statuettes, and the bone flutes up to roughly the fall of Rome. The art research topics here include: The impact of the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the nomadic tribes to the ancient art history
51 Best Art Research Paper Topics For Your Project
Here are some interesting art education research topics: The use of social media in specific fields of art. Painting should be a mandatory discipline. Technology and its uses in teaching art. Music should be a mandatory discipline. The art of photography in school curriculum.
A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics
Visual Art Research Topics. Painting as pedagogy. Sculpture in the modern age. The creative works of popular artists. Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist's creations. A comparison of style of different artists. Trends in photography in different generations. Impact of technology on visual art.
What Is Research Art?
Research Art is Everywhere. But Some Artists Do It Better Than Others. The documentation room from Gala Porras-Kim's installation Mediating with the Rain, 2021-, photographs, documents ...
187 Attractive Art Research Paper Topics Ideas of 2023
List of Art Research Paper Topic Ideas of 2023 Top 10 Art History Research Paper Topics. Art history is an interesting topic to explore, and it can be used in a variety of ways. The role of symbolism in the art of the Renaissance. The impact of Impressionism on the development of modern art.
Artistic Research
Here are some common methods of data collection used in artistic research: Artistic production: One of the most common methods of data collection in artistic research is the creation of new artistic works. This involves using the artistic practice itself as a method of data collection. Artists may create new works of art, performances, or ...
Top Art Research Paper Topic for All Students
The 20th-century ideas for art research paper topics are multiple and diverse due to the emergence of artistic movements and global changes. You can tell a lot in an art research paper about Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, Fauvism, Minimalism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Photorealism.
Research-based Art Practices: Context and Framework
Abstract. Located at the interstices between art and academic forms of knowledge, research-based art practices are very diverse both in their research methodologies and in their artistic forms. This chapter identifies their main features and their specificities in the Southeast Asian context. As they derive from the artists' desire to learn ...
Arts
Astronomy; Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Engineering; Geography, Planning, & Environment; Mathematics; Physics
The Best 125 Art Research Paper Topics for 2023
Check out these unique art history research paper topics: The history of art in Eastern Europe. Russian art: the beginning. An in-depth look at Mayan art. The first works of art in the world. Discuss art in the Greek theater. The inception of Renaissance art. Compare and contrast Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The effects of art on the world.
arts-based educational research: Topics by Science.gov
The Ambiguity of Perception: Virtual Art Museology, Free-Choice Learning, and Children's Art Education. ERIC Educational Resources Information Center. Mulligan, Christine Susan. 2010-01-01. With many art museums uploading web-based art activities for youngsters, an online phenomenon is burgeoning, and a research domain is emerging. In an effort to contribute empirical evidence to an area of ...
Sustaining Art Research Collections: Using Data To Explore ...
Sustaining Art Research Collections is an outcome from the Operationalizing the Art Research Collective Collection project, which is supported through a grant by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation with significant co-investment from OCLC. The concept for this report originated in a 2019 discussion of challenges facing art research libraries between ...
113 Great Research Paper Topics
113 Great Research Paper Topics. Posted by Christine Sarikas. General Education. One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and ...
The Arts Therapies and Neuroscience
Keywords: Art Therapy, Neuroscience, Neuroaesthetics, Expressive arts and neuroscience, Nervous system, Neuroscience and creativity, Brain structure and function, Somatosensory processing, Affect and cognitive processing . Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements.
Houston Weekend Planner: Sugar Land Arts Fest hosts over 100 artists
This weekend is full of music, art, wine, and activities for the kids. The third annual Sugar Land Arts Fest is underway Saturday and Sunday with over 100 artists showcasing their work.