how to cite an art piece in mla: exploring the nuances of artistic representation

In MLA style, citing an artwork involves more than just listing the author’s name and title; it requires careful consideration of the medium, context, and specific details that make the artwork unique. This nuanced approach ensures that readers can trace the origins of the artwork and understand its significance within the broader narrative of literature or scholarly discourse. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this citation method.

The Basics of MLA Artwork Citation

According to the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines, when citing an artwork, you should include the following elements:

1. Title of the Artwork: This should be in quotation marks if it is part of a larger work such as a book, and in italics if it is a standalone piece like a painting or sculpture.

2. Artist’s Name: Always provide the artist’s name, even if they are anonymous or not widely known. If the artist has a pseudonym, use the original name.

3. Medium: Indicate the material from which the artwork is made, e.g., “oil on canvas,” “digital print,” etc.

4. Dimensions: Provide the size of the artwork, if available.

5. Location: Specify where the artwork is displayed or housed, including the institution or venue.

6. Date of Creation: Include the year the artwork was produced.

7. Publisher/Host: For digital artworks, specify the website or platform where the artwork is hosted, along with the date it was accessed.

Example Citations

Here are some examples of how to format these elements:

• Painting:

  • Van Gogh, Vincent. Starry Night. Oil on canvas, 1889. Museum of Modern Art, New York, 1990.

• Photograph:

  • Smith, John. Cityscape. Digital print, 2010. National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/cityscape, accessed 15 Oct. 2023.

• Performance Art:

  • Doe, Jane. The Dance of Life. Live performance at The Contemporary Art Center, 2022.

Additional Considerations

When citing multiple works by the same artist, it is important to note which piece you are referring to. For example:

• Multiple Works by the Same Artist:
  • The Starry Night (Van Gogh, 1889).
  • Sunflowers (Van Gogh, 1888).

For collaborative works or installations, it may be necessary to provide additional information about the contributors or components:

• Collaborative Work:
  • The Great Wave off Kanagawa (Hokusai, Katsushika, et al., 1830).

Understanding these elements allows for a comprehensive and accurate citation of artworks, ensuring that readers can locate the source and appreciate the context of the artwork being discussed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I cite a sculpture in MLA? A: When citing a sculpture, follow the same structure as other artworks but ensure you specify the material used, dimensions, and location. For example: “Smith, John. Bronze Head. Bronze, 2015. The Contemporary Art Center, 2023.”

Q: What if the artwork is from a private collection? A: In such cases, it is best to consult the curator or institution that holds the artwork for specific details. They will have the most accurate information and can provide a proper citation.

Q: How do I cite a digital drawing? A: For digital drawings, include the medium (e.g., digital ink), resolution, and any relevant software used. Example: Digital Drawing (Artist, Year). Digital medium, Resolution, Software, Location.