Two Women with Children on a Bridge 

Editor: This is "Two Women with Children on a Bridge" by Torii Kiyonaga. The women's elegant poses and the delicate cherry blossoms give it a serene feeling. What strikes you about the composition? Curator: The linear perspective employed by Kiyonaga creates a sense of depth, drawing the eye from the foreground figures across the bridge to the cityscape in the background. Note also the interplay between the geometric forms of the bridge and the organic shapes of the figures and flora. Editor: That's a great point. The lines really do guide your eye. Is there anything else that catches your attention? Curator: Consider how Kiyonaga uses color to differentiate the figures and to create visual interest. The contrast between the black kimono and the red garments, for example, is quite striking, isn't it? Editor: It is. I’ve learned so much about how to examine the formal elements of art today! Curator: Indeed. Examining the formal elements allows a deeper understanding of the artwork.