Create an Art Critique Using the Elements of Design

Strengthen visual analysis skills by applying design elements to critique artworks.

Teaching Context:
Best for Year 8 to Year 11 Visual Arts when teaching art appreciation and critique.

Basic AI Prompt:
Critique Van Gogh’s Starry Night using the elements of design.

Enhanced AI Prompt:
You are learning to analyse artworks. Ask AI to critique a famous painting (e.g. Starry Night, The Persistence of Memory) using the elements of design: line, colour, texture, space, form, and balance. Ask AI to explain how each element creates mood, meaning, or focus. Then, ask AI to suggest how the artist might change the artwork to create a different effect.

Spice it Up (Optional Extension):
Ask AI to describe how the painting could be reimagined as a modern street art piece.

Lesson Implementation:
Begin by reviewing the elements of design and applying them to a well-known painting. Students use AI to generate a detailed critique, then share their thoughts in a gallery walk or group discussion.

Students create a visual response: either a reimagined version of the artwork or an infographic explaining its key design elements. Wrap up with a reflection: “How do design elements change the way we see art?” This builds art literacy and analytical thinking.

Got ideas on different ways to use this prompt? Share them with the class in the comments below!

Also, if you liked this, you'll love the thousands of subject-specific AI prompts in our books section!