What term describes the analysis of the form and style of an artwork through study of materials and organization of the elements of art?

• A. Realism
• B. Expressionism
• C. Abstract Expressionism
• D. Formalism

Answer: (D)

Formalism is the approach that analyzes a work by looking at its form, materials, and how the elements of art are organized. It asks how line, shape, color, texture, value, space, and composition work together to create visual effect, mood, and meaning through the artwork’s technique and structure. In this view, the emphasis is on how the artwork is made and how those formal decisions guide our perception, rather than on what the subject is or what it represents.

This is why it fits the description: the focus is on the form and style revealed through the materials used and how the elements of art are arranged to produce the overall appearance. In contrast, realism centers on accurate depiction of subjects, expressionism stresses conveying emotion, and abstract expressionism highlights spontaneous, nonrepresentational gesture—none of which prioritize formal analysis in the same way.