Hi there,
I was just wondering if there was any formula or advice upon acing the short answer segment of the HSC paper? I've been struggling with figuring out how to get the full marks, while still using the art terminology and meeting the needs of the question.
Adding onto dancing phalanges' answer, the best way to get full marks in section 1 is to differentiate the 'conceptual framework', 'practice' and 'frames' questions from each other. Each of the questions represents one of these categories. The only way to do this is by practice and exposing yourself to new questions everyday. You need to learn the difference between the three in order to effectively answer section 1.
Conceptual framework:
Question usually asks how the artist can relate the work to the world somehow. Society is usually involved in this question and you must make a comment how the work has impacted its audience.
Practice:
How did the artist did they work and what did they use? How does their practice create meaning? This is basically an expansion on the structural frame. How did they cultural background affect how they do their work?
Frames:
Fairly straightforward. Most likely to ask you about one frames rather than all the frames at once. It is rare that they'll ask a subjective frame question because it's a bit 'basic' (as my art teacher would say). Cultural frame = how the artist's cultural background affected their work, what events happened during their time etc. Structural frame = provide evidence how the artist did their work. Post-modern frame = what postmodern features are prominent in the work.
I should probably start a 'guess the question' thread soon. But for now, try and guess what types of questions these are.
"How does an artist’s practice affect how they interpret motion in their work?"
"How does the artist depict her environment in her work?"
answer
frames (specifically structural)
"How does the conceptual intent of an artist impact an audience’s perception of the world?"
answer
conceptual framework
By building up your capacity to differentiate these types of questions, this will make it easier for you to do your analysis.
To get the full marks for section 1, definitely try and fill up the provided space in the booklet (or even ask for an extra booklet). For every point made, just keep on expanding, whilst still sticking to the question.
For example, if you get this question in the exam 'How does John Wolseley depict features of Australian in his work?'.
Point out everything in the work (techniques, materials, time of work) and relate everything to the artist and/or society
suggested answer
In this lithographic print “Botanist’s Camp” (1997) by the Australian artist John Wolseley, it appears to be a depiction of the Australian landscape. In the work, Wolseley attempts to capture the rural landscape of Australia through the raw, natural colours that perfectly depict the realistic image of this seemingly mundane matter. The work provides a plethora of botanical plants, alluding to the name of work, whereby it reflect Wolseley’s overall intentions and practice as an artist. The plants also challenges initial perceptions of the Australian landscape
Doesn't matter if your interpretation is right or wrong. The markers want to see your ability to make an argument not if you got the meaning of the work right.