Visual Arts
ARC Work Sample Marley
Stage 6 Preliminary Course Visual Arts student work sample – Grade Lower B
A well-developed
understanding of tonal
contrast and the impasto
rendering of textured, block
colour has been applied to
a deliberate stylisation of
the planes of the face in
areas such as the forehead
and cheeks.
Colour has been layered to
represent textural elements
in the hair. The use of
complementary colours is
visually effective and
enlivens the portrait.
The direct gaze of the sitter
knowingly engages the
viewer with a slightly
inquisitive expression.
Proportion is accurate
around the forehead and
eye area. Inconsistencies
occur in the definition of
the nose and mouth and
the large flat white area of
the shirt is less well
integrated.
Grade Commentary
Marley’s artwork demonstrates a well-developed material practice in painting. The highly textured, impasto
painting technique is most successful in the hair and ground. The strategic use of a complimentary colour
scheme coupled with decisions regarding the direct gaze of the sitter compels the viewer’s attention to the face
as the focus of the work.
Marley’s artwork demonstrates characteristics of work typically produced by a student performing at a grade B
standard.