Instructions (for writing your visual analysis paper):
Purpose: This is not a research paper. It is a chance to apply and further hone your visual
analysis skills, which we have been practicing doing the course of the semester. The goal is to
create an argument about two images in comparison and/or in contrast to one another. Doing this
will help you to analyze art or visual culture that you may not easily understand at first, but
which you learn to discuss intelligently through careful observation and synthesis of ideas.
Format: 4-5 pages, double spaced, 12-pt. font, 1” margins (approximately 1,100–1,350 words)
Choose Your Visual Objects:
We have no preference in what you choose! Pick two things that speak to you. These may be
images or works that confuse, shock, irritate, or puzzle you. Or they might be images/works you
have always admired and would like to spend time analyzing.
Examples of Visual Objects:
• 2 scenes from 2 different films, series, or music videos (watch whatever you’re analyzing; or
analyze an advertisement or trailer for each—up to you)
• 2 works of art from museums (or elsewhere)
• 1 artwork and 1 film
• 2 different advertisements
Write the Paper (with a clear Structure!):
1) In your first paragraphs, describe the works carefully. In contrast to your notes (see #1
above), be strategic about your descriptions. What are the most important things for your
reader to know to relate the objects to each other?
2) Here or later in the paper, make a thesis statement about the two visual artifacts. Examples:
“Paired together, they show how visual representations of trans people have become
mainstream.” Or, “In these two pictures, we see how toxic masculinities [or positive
masculinities!] represented in historic art form are alive and well today.” Or, “Examining the
traditional white, cis-male entertainment format of the drag race allows us to see how RuPaul
highjacked it to entertain and mainstream a trans and queer-of-color critique of norms.”
3) Provide a brief discussion of the context for each visual object (one paragraph each). Here,
think about the context. Where? When? Why? Who made it? Who is the audience? You can base this on life experience or some online research.
a) You can (but don’t have to) add some research if you like, just make sure you cite it (with
a footnote in the citation style of your choice [For example, Chicago Style or MLA). If
you use a website, just include a link.
4) Make the case to back up your thesis statement. Compare and contrast the visual material,
paying particular attention to the meanings you have gleaned from your close observation
and from the comparison.
5) End your paper by commenting on how these objects have informed or are informed by your
understanding of issues of Image and Gender (or other aspects of intersectional identity).
6) Edit it and submit!
7) Please attach images of the visual works (not included in the page count) and your notes.
