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Starting with genre

Collage of flower photographs
Image caption,
This student has used flowers as inspiration
Expressive genres - still life (fruit), portraiture, figure composition, fantasy/imagination, built environment, natural environment

Genre relates to the subject of an artwork. Popular genres include:

  • still life
  • portrait
  • natural environment
  • built environment
  • figure composition
  • fantasy and imagination

Decide on a genre or theme which interests you. You will be working on it for some time, so choose an area that will keep you motivated.

Consider your skill level when selecting a genre – challenge yourself but ensure your project is within your abilities.

If you decide to work in one particular genre, you must still make choices about your personal approach and . You should consider the following:

  • what subject will you show?
  • what aspect of that subject will you concentrate on?
  • what type of composition do you want to work on?

A spidergram can help record your thoughts as you make more detailed decisions about your work.

Click through the slideshow for examples:

Image gallerySkip image gallerySlide 1 of 6, Expressive portraiture - self-portrait, friend/relative, emotions, head and shoulders, interests, full figure, Spidergram - Portrait choices

Question

What is meant by a genre?