Spotlight 9 How to describe the painting

How to Describe a Painting (in English)

• To begin with, you should say that the painting belongs to a particular genre. It can be…
• the portrait
• the landscape (seascape, townscape)
• the still life ( натюрморт)
• the historical/ mythological painting

If you remember some information about the painter, say it then

• This artist lived in the ……century and worked in the style known as Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Surrealism, Cubism, Expressionism, Abstract Art.

Use adjectives:

• confusing
• colourful
• romantic
• lyrical
• powerful
• outstanding ( famous)
• heart-breaking
• impressive

Colours can be:

• warm/ cold colours
• bold colours
• oppressive colours
• bright colours
• deep colours
• light colours

Try to describe what you can see in general

• In the centre/middle of the painting we can see a ….
• In the foreground there is a….
• In the background there are….
• On the left/ right stands/ sits…

• + make some details!

give your impression. Use the words and phrases:

• To my mind, it is a masterpiece that could stand the test of time.
• I feel extremely impressed by this painting.
• It is brilliant, amazing. It is a real masterpiece by (….. the painter).