#11 (4 of 4)

Plate #11 (4 of 4)

Topic: Contents of Art (Levels of Meaning)
Template Title: My Contents in Art

Materials:

• 1 whole sheet of bond paper

• Pen (black or blue ink)

• Ruler

• Any coloring materials (optional)

Instructions / Activity Guide:

This activity helps you understand the different levels of meaning in art. Based on the image provided and your chosen artwork from Templates #8, #9, and #10, you will identify and explain the five levels of content in art.

Step 1: Prepare Your Paper

Using a ruler, draw a table with four columns and five rows.

Label the columns as follows:

• Level

• Short Definition

• What is it really about?

• Example (Based on Template #8, #9, #10)

Step 2: Write the Levels and Definitions (Column 2)

Fill in the first two columns using these levels and short definitions (rewrite in your own words, 1 sentence each):

1. Factual – The literal and visible subject of the artwork.

2. Conventional – The shared or symbolic meaning based on culture and traditions.

3. Subjective – The personal interpretation of the viewer.

4. Contextual – The meaning influenced by time, place, society, and the artist’s background.

5. Thematic – The main idea or central message of the artwork.

Step 3: Explain “What is it really about?” (Column 3)

For each level, briefly explain its purpose:

• Factual: What we see without interpretation.

• Conventional: What people in society commonly understand it to mean.

• Subjective: What it personally means to you.

• Contextual: How history and background affect its meaning.

• Thematic: The deeper message or idea being expressed.

Write 1–2 sentences for each.

Step 4: Apply It to Your Template #8, #9, and #10 (Column 4)

Using the same artwork you previously analyzed, give an example for each level.

Guide Questions:

Factual:

• What people, objects, or setting do you see?

Conventional:

• Are there symbols with cultural meaning?

Subjective:

• What does the artwork mean to you personally?

Contextual:

• When and where was it created?

• What social or historical influences affect it?

Thematic:

• What is the main message or idea?

Write 2–3 sentences per level in the Example column.

Step 5: Organize and Design

• Keep your table neat and aligned.

• Use a ruler to make straight lines.

• You may highlight keywords or underline important terms.

• Make sure your explanations clearly connect to your chosen artwork.

Reminder:

• Factual = What we see.

• Conventional = Shared cultural meaning.

• Subjective = Personal meaning.

• Contextual = Influence of history and background.

• Thematic = Main message of the artwork.

Clarity and understanding are more important than decoration.

Enjoy!