Art Critique - Jasper Johns: 0 through 9

   This artwork was made by Jasper Johns and is called 0 through 9.  It is a painting and was made in 1961.  The painting is abstract, and is based mostly off the number sequence 0-9.


    You can tell that the artist put lines and shapes specifically so that you could make out the different numbers.  The colors he used and how they mash together don't confuse you, but at the same time they do.  In ways the colors help you make out each shape/number, and at the same time give an illusion of other objects like arms or legs.  Overall the way the artist made the painting, and the way he placed the colors lets you see many things, and not just one.


   I think the artist wanted us to see that there can be more than one vocal point in a piece.  He gives us an illusion, and depending on the person, you see different things.  Sometimes you need to take your time, and actually look at even the smallest of details.  When you do, you can see things in a different way, or notice something you never did not notice before.


   I actually really like this piece of artwork.  It inspires me, because it really makes you think, and depending on the person you see different things.  When I look at the artwork, I see the numbers three, four, and eight, but given on the title, I know there's more.  This excites me, because it causes me to actually look and give thought to what the artist is trying to say.  I congratulate how the artist accomplishes that in this painting.