Learn from Paintings

100+ diverse artworks analyzed using the 7-step visual literacy framework

Featured Analysis

The Kiss by Gustav Klimt - lovers embracing in golden robes with ornate patterns
Foundational

The Kiss

Gustav Klimt, 1907-1908

Klimt's masterpiece uses gold leaf, ornate patterns, and symbolic imagery to elevate romantic love to sacred status. Learn how composition, color theory, and Byzantine influences create one of art history's most recognizable works.

You'll Learn:

  • How to analyze warm vs. cool color palettes
  • Understanding compositional balance and focal points
  • Reading symbolic meaning in visual patterns
  • Translating painting techniques to filmmaking
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All Paintings

Each analysis follows the same 7-step framework, building your visual literacy skills progressively.

The Kiss by Gustav Klimt Easy

The Kiss

Gustav Klimt

1907-1908

Composition Color Theory Symbolism
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The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh Easy

The Starry Night

Vincent van Gogh

1889

Movement Emotion Texture
Coming Soon
The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Hokusai Easy

The Great Wave off Kanagawa

Katsushika Hokusai

1831

Scale Perspective Contrast
Coming Soon
Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer Easy

Girl with a Pearl Earring

Johannes Vermeer

1665

Focal Point Lighting Intimacy
Coming Soon
Nighthawks by Edward Hopper Moderate

Nighthawks

Edward Hopper

1942

Isolation Film Noir Urban Life
Coming Soon
The Two Fridas by Frida Kahlo Moderate

The Two Fridas

Frida Kahlo

1939

Identity Surrealism Symbolism
Coming Soon
Guernica by Pablo Picasso Challenging

Guernica

Pablo Picasso

1937

Cubism Political Art Abstraction
Coming Soon
No. 5, 1948 by Jackson Pollock Challenging

No. 5, 1948

Jackson Pollock

1948

Abstraction Gesture Emotion
Coming Soon

92 More Paintings Coming Soon!

We're working on analyses of 100 diverse paintings from artists around the world. Each follows the same systematic framework so you build visual literacy progressively.

Suggested Learning Path

Not sure where to start? Follow this progression to build your visual literacy systematically.

1

Start with Easy

Begin with accessible works like Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and Klimt's "The Kiss." These teach foundational principles: focal points, composition, color.

Girl with a Pearl Earring The Kiss The Starry Night
2

Move to Moderate

Once comfortable, tackle works with more complex symbolism like Hopper's "Nighthawks" and Kahlo's "The Two Fridas." These add layers of interpretation.

Nighthawks The Two Fridas Las Meninas
3

Challenge Yourself

Ready for advanced analysis? Try Picasso's "Guernica" or Pollock's abstract expressionism. These synthesize all the principles you've learned.

Guernica No. 5, 1948 Girl Before a Mirror