Critical Review of the Art Work by John Joseph, Mass Communication 200L, Lens University Ilemona

The Work of art showcases an image of a teenage boy in a room that looks old, unkept, clothes all around the floor, hanged on the wall and two baskets one on the other. The boy in the image is wearing a short and a round neck top standing in front of a mirror staring right into it. Also, the mirror in the image reflects the boy wearing a cooperate dress with a smile on his face.

The features of the image suggests that the boy is living in a state of economic hardship or has limited resources for living. It doesn’t end there. The image also showcases the reflection of the boy through the mirror in a different attire which suggests that the boy has an entirely different determination, ambition and some sense of hope. The Work of art is a self communication statement about “where I am” and “where I want to be”. It’s significance lies on the condition of the tension between lack and aspiration, present and future, reality and imagination. It tends to encourage viewers to stay determined and keep all hopes high and also to think critically about social aspects of life, opportunities, ambitions, identity and definition of success.

The artist should have added certain effects on the image such as showcasing an entirely different environment through the reflection of the mirror because it still shows the scattered clothes on the floor. The artist should have added features that shows that the boy doesn’t just admires to be what is reflected on the mirror but he’s also working towards achieving his desired goals.

Features such as the boy carrying a school bag, wearing school uniform and sandals or dressed in sports wears can clearly communicate that the boy in the image is committed to something.

The Work of art is effective in communicating aspiration and the desire for a better future because it contrasts a person’s present circumstance with the future they may desire. However the message would have been clearer if the artist added features that tends to communicate themes of dedication, hard work, service and commitment.