how to cite art in mla: exploring the boundaries of artistic representation

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Citing art in MLA style is not only about acknowledging the source of inspiration or creation but also about navigating the complex landscape of artistic expression and its documentation. When discussing artworks, whether they be paintings, sculptures, photographs, or other forms of visual media, it’s crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive citations that respect the intellectual property rights of artists and curators. This article delves into various aspects of citing art in MLA format, offering guidance for students, researchers, and scholars alike who wish to engage with and reference artistic works effectively.

The Basics of MLA Citations

MLA citation style, originally developed by the Modern Language Association, is widely used in academic writing, particularly in humanities fields such as literature, history, and cultural studies. For citing art, the basic structure involves providing specific details about the artwork, including the artist’s name, title of the work, medium, date of creation, and any relevant information about the exhibition or publication where the artwork was displayed or published. Here’s an example of how to cite a painting:

• Painting: Artist’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of the Work.” Title of the Exhibition or Publication, Publisher, Date, Location.

For instance, if we were to cite a painting titled “The Starry Night” by Vincent van Gogh from an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, the citation would look like this:

• Van Gogh, Vincent. “The Starry Night.” Starry Night Over the Rhone, Museum of Modern Art, New York City, 1889.

Additional Considerations

When citing art, it’s important to consider the context in which the artwork is presented. This includes understanding the role of the curator, the historical and cultural significance of the artwork, and the context in which it was created and received. In some cases, the artwork might have been created as part of a larger installation or performance, requiring additional information to fully contextualize the piece.

Additionally, when dealing with digital art or multimedia presentations, it’s crucial to provide details about the platform on which the artwork is displayed, such as the website URL, video file names, or interactive elements. This ensures that readers can access and view the artwork accurately.

Examples and Variations

To illustrate the different ways art can be cited, let’s consider a few examples:

1. Photograph:

   • Photographer’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of the Photograph.” Title of the Publication, Publisher, Date, Location. Example: Bourne, David. “Sunset at the Beach.” Sunset Series, Getty Images, 2015, Los Angeles.

2. Sculpture:

   • Sculptor’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of the Sculpture.” Title of the Exhibition or Publication, Publisher, Date, Location. Example: Smith, Alexander. “The Thinker.” Thinker Project, Tate Modern, London, 1937.

3. Performance Art:

   • Performer’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of the Performance.” Title of the Exhibition or Publication, Publisher, Date, Location. Example: Pinter, Harold. “Waiting for Godot.” Playwrights Gallery, New York City, 1953.

Conclusion

In conclusion, citing art in MLA style is a nuanced process that requires attention to detail and an understanding of the broader context in which the artwork exists. By providing accurate and thorough citations, we not only give credit to the creators of these works but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue around art and its role in our society. Whether you’re a student preparing a research paper, a scholar contributing to a peer-reviewed journal, or a writer exploring the intersections of art and culture, mastering the art of citation is essential.

Related Questions

1. How do I cite a photograph in MLA?

   • When citing a photograph in MLA, include the photographer’s name, the title of the photograph, the publication or exhibition title, the publisher, and the date. For example: Bourne, David. “Sunset at the Beach.” Sunset Series, Getty Images, 2015, Los Angeles.

2. What is the difference between citing a painting and a sculpture in MLA?

   • The main difference lies in the description provided. For a painting, you typically include the title of the painting, while for a sculpture, you include the title of the sculpture. Both should also mention the artist’s name, the date, and the location of the exhibition or publication.

3. How do I cite a performance art piece in MLA?

   • Cite performance art pieces by including the performer’s name, the title of the performance, the publication or exhibition title, the publisher, and the date. For example: Pinter, Harold. “Waiting for Godot.” Playwrights Gallery, New York City, 1953.