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A visual analysis essay is you interpreting the ideas of an image, video, painting, or other visual work. You should choose an idea, or theme, that is present and provide an analysis. This analysis should be supported with evidence that demonstrates either the image’s importance or its significance in a wider context. When writing a visual analysis determine the purpose of the artist, who the audience is, the method which it was created, and the historical context of when it was produced and when it was made. A visual analysis essay uses the standard five-essay paragraph with notable changes,

Introduction:

1. Describe the image vividly so the reader can have a strong understanding of it, even provide it if necessary.

2. Discuss how it was created and the purpose of the artist. Giving interesting, but relevant, facts about the image and artist provides a stronger understanding of the overall context.

3. The thesis should tell the reader the meaning of the image.

Three Body Paragraphs:

Each body paragraph should include,

1. Topic sentence, the main idea of the paragraph

2.  Evidence and examples. Ensure that they connect back to the thesis.

Conclusion:

This paragraph will summarize the details of the supporting evidence and ensure it is connected to the thesis and image.

Citations:

Used to demonstrate academic honesty. Most writing assignments require a citation/references list in APA citation style.