What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

This painting gives us the feeling of looking into a paradise. There is a mysterious haziness behind the painting.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The most prominent element in this painting is the color. On the right side of the painting, the colors are brighter and more vibrant, while on the left side, the colors are darker and a bit eerie. In addition, the light colors in the back give off a sense of mystery. We believe that the depth of color can, to a certain extent, convey the meaning of the painting.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

Compared to the paintings we know and have seen, it is actually difficult for us to judge them because each painting is unique and exquisite. To be honest, my friend and I had different views when we first saw this painting. I saw a bright and beautiful paradise, while she saw the gloomy other side.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

The museum may have made some strategic choices about the display of the exhibits to enhance visitor engagement and comprehension. They may have chosen a prominent location for optimal visibility and accessibility, ensuring that the exhibits capture visitors’ attention as they move through the space. Accompanying text and labels may have been carefully crafted to provide context, offering historical context and meaning without overwhelming visitors. Overall, these choices reflect a balance between aesthetics, education, and preservation.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

There is an African-American woman with her hands in the air, wearing sunglasses and a skirt that comes out of the portrait. There are folding chairs on her skirt, and a variety of textures on her clothes, and general body.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

There are many colors and patterns, especially on her outfit. The background has a splotchy pattern, with white and green. The woman is big in proportion to the canvas size.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

This seems related to the folding chair that is also in the exhibit. The story here is to demonstrate the lack of rights that black Americans had in the United States, going as far as to deprive them of sitting privileges.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

It is surrounded by other portraits, but speaks out the most in terms of color and size.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

We believe that the carvings depict the ancient Assyrians performing religious rituals to their gods.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

We noticed lines across the tablets which we hypothesize to be an ancient text – a language spoken by the Assyrians. The text likely resembles a mythological story or historial event. It seems like we are standing in the temple itself.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

We first heard of the Assyrians through the Torah/Bible. It’s interesting to see them in a different light.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

We think it was good choice to take this to the museum because the remaining palace reliefs were destroyed by ISIS in 2015.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

Luna makes an astounding commentary on the duality that is possible of man. Luna shows us two sides of the same face, one side his Native background and one side his Mexican background. The sides look like two different people, so Luna ties them together in the middle, with a photo of the subject looking right at the viewer. It’s less of a story, more of a social commentary on the ‘norms’ we set and how easily they can be shattered.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The black-and-white palette highlights the blend of identities. Bold lines define cultural symbols, showing both separation and connection. Without color, the focus shifts to essence.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

This artwork highlights how perspective is key in understanding complex situations. Just as you might think you see the whole story by viewing only part of it, true understanding often requires seeing the complete picture, like the forward-facing image in the center.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

By placing the images at the center of the room and making them large, they immediately draw viewers' attention upon entry. This positioning encourages visitors to engage with the piece from multiple angles, reinforcing the idea that understanding is shaped by perspective.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

While walking around the museum, in the Egyptian section we stumbled upon a board game that seemed familiar to us. While closely looking at it reminded us of the game Mancala. Upon wanting to find out more, we decided to read the description. It turned out to be an ancient version of Mancala.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The version presented to us was being held by two human like statues which was what caught our attention in the first place. The game board appeared to be shaped like a boat. This to us felt that it showed that boats were essential during the time period, and that people weren’t all about working. They had leisure time to play games just like we do today.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

We were shocked to learn that even Mancala was played many years back. It shows the immense impact that many things from the past have on the world today. From the games we play to the traditions we practice in our daily lives. It’s amazing how much we can learn by just visiting a museum and carefully observing what’s around us and learning about ancient history and its connection with the modern day.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

Hyroglifics and registers depicting the persons authority. An important person being mummified.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

Dogs, one eye drawn, symbols, Egyptians(people), depicted with Horus so there is importance in the person mummified. Horus being drawn on your tomb amplifies your importance.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

This is an actual person and one of the biggest pieces.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

It is the only human thing surrounded by objects and in the center of the room.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

It's VERY colorful, especially compared to the work around it. A woman is nude and happy and painting something.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The un-real proportions and shiny canvas contribute to a "otherworldly" feel. Although it looks like digital art at first glance, it's actually an oil painting.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

I don't know anything that can compare to this!

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

It was put in the nude section & in the center of the wall for prominence.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

We can see that the painting is clearly showing us the black boy. As written on the description, this is a family with a black boy thought to be their servant. There are two stages to this artwork, this being the second in which he covered the other people to give the focus of attention to the black boy.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The very first thing we saw in this artwork is the white brushstrokes. Most of us had the expression of “wow” because of how fast we understood it.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

We already know about the history of colored people and how we’ve always been under the white people. Also, compared to other artworks, this is bold and provocative, drawing people’s eyes to this specific artwork.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

If you haven’t entered the room, you wouldn’t be able to see the artwork but as soon as you do, it draws your attention. I think it having a powerful meaning also goes with how it is kinda of hidden. The spot it was put in is perfect.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

The museum chose to display this object in a room full of other artworks depicting the presence of water and this theme was effectively united through the blue walls, emphasizing this message.

What do you see going on in this work of art? Is there a story depicted?

In this painting, there is a woman relaxing among a variety of flowers. A bee is also seemingly pollinating the flowers, which allows her to be more at peace and in harmony with herself.

What different visual elements (ie: line, color, light, proportions, scale, composition, media type etc.) do you notice, and how do they help you make sense of the artwork?

The color of the woman's skin tone is juxtaposed by the vibrancy of the flowers, making her stand out in the piece. Additionally, the fact that she is shown without clothing symbolizes that she is showcasing her real self, rather than hiding her identity behind clothes. Moreover, the use of rings and circles, as opposed to harsh, direct lines, reinforces the idea of being at peace with oneself.

How does this object compare to other objects, stories, or ideas you already know about?

One of the main focuses of the artwork is the emphasis on flowers, and flowers are generally seen as positive aspects of nature. As a result, this piece reinforces the idea that flowers are calming and relaxing.

What choices do you think the museum made about the object’s display?

The museum decided to place the piece, which contains bright flowers, in this particular room because the other paintings and displays are all of flowers.