how to cite art in mla: exploring the depth of visual arts discourse

Article

Citing art within the MLA (Modern Language Association) guidelines is an intricate process that involves more than just listing the title and author of the artwork. It requires a nuanced understanding of the medium and its context, as well as a clear articulation of the relationship between the cited work and the larger body of research or writing. This article delves into various aspects of how to properly cite art in MLA format, providing a comprehensive guide for writers and researchers navigating this complex landscape.

Understanding Art Citations

When citing visual arts in MLA style, it’s crucial to consider the nature of the artwork being referenced. Unlike literary works which have authors, artworks often lack traditional creators due to their abstract or collective nature. For example, when discussing a collaborative installation or a piece of conceptual art, identifying the “author” can be challenging. In such cases, the curator or the institution responsible for the exhibition becomes the key figure to credit.

Moreover, the medium of the artwork plays a significant role in how it should be cited. Digital art, for instance, might require different citation formats compared to traditional mediums like painting or sculpture. Digital citations often include information about the digital platform where the work was hosted or accessed. This could include the URL, the date of access, and sometimes even the file name or identifier if available.

MLA Format for Art Cite

In MLA format, the citation for an artwork typically follows a specific structure. Here’s a breakdown of how to cite various types of visual arts:

1. Printed Books or Articles

For printed books or articles featuring images, you would list the author(s), title of the book/article, publisher, publication date, page numbers (if applicable), and then the artist and title of the artwork. If the artwork is part of a larger publication, include the name of the section or chapter as well.

Example:

Smith, Jane. *The Art of Modernism*. Routledge, 2023. Pp. 125-127. "Untitled," *The Museum of Modern Art*, New York, 1960.

2. Digital Artworks

For digital art, the citation might look slightly different. Include the URL, the date of access, and any other relevant metadata.

Example:

Anonymous. "Untitled." *MySpace.com*. Accessed March 24, 2023. <https://myspace.com/anonymous/artwork/untitled>.

3. Group Exhibitions

When citing works from group exhibitions, it’s important to specify the curator, not the artist, unless there is a notable individual artist behind the project.

Example:

Curator, Name. *Artists' Group Exhibition*. *Name of the Museum*, City, State, Year. Pp. 34-36. "Untitled," *Artist A* and *Artist B*, *Name of the Museum*, City, State, Year.

Additional Considerations

Beyond the basic citation format, there are several additional considerations that can enhance your citation and provide deeper insight into the artwork. These might include:

• Contextual Information: Provide background information about the artwork, its significance, and its place in the broader context of the exhibition or collection.
• Exhibition Details: Include details about the exhibition, such as the location, dates, and any special features or installations.
• Critical Reception: Mention reviews, critiques, or scholarly analyses of the artwork that contribute to your argument or discussion.

Conclusion

Citing art in MLA format is a delicate balance between adhering to academic standards and acknowledging the unique qualities of visual media. By carefully considering the medium, the context, and the critical reception, you can effectively integrate artworks into your scholarly discourse, enriching your analysis with deeper insights and broader perspectives.

Q&A

Q: What if the artwork has no title? A: When an artwork lacks a title, use descriptive terms that identify the piece uniquely. For example, you might refer to it as “Untitled (Red Square),” or “Untitled (Blue Line).”

Q: How do I cite an online-only work without a physical copy? A: For online-only works, include the URL, the date of access, and any other relevant metadata. If the work is hosted on a platform that provides a DOI (Digital Object Identifier), include that as well.

Q: Can I cite multiple versions of the same artwork? A: Yes, if the artwork has been reproduced or reinterpreted in different forms, you can cite each version separately, noting the differences and similarities.