How to Cite Art in MLA: A Brushstroke of Chaos in the World of Citations

How to Cite Art in MLA: A Brushstroke of Chaos in the World of Citations

Citing art in MLA format can feel like trying to paint a masterpiece with a toothbrush—tedious, confusing, and occasionally messy. But fear not! Whether you’re referencing a Renaissance painting, a modern sculpture, or a digital NFT, this guide will help you navigate the labyrinth of art citations with ease. And while we’re at it, let’s sprinkle in some chaos by discussing why citing art is like trying to explain abstract expressionism to a cat.

Why Cite Art in MLA?

Citing art is essential for academic integrity, allowing readers to trace your sources and appreciate the context of your work. MLA (Modern Language Association) style is commonly used in the humanities, making it a natural fit for discussing visual art. But let’s be honest—citing art is also a way to flex your attention to detail and show off your ability to decode cryptic museum labels.

How to Cite Art in MLA: The Basics

The format for citing art in MLA depends on where you encountered the artwork. Here’s a breakdown:

If you saw the artwork in person, your citation should include:

  • Artist’s name
  • Title of the artwork (in italics)
  • Date of creation
  • Name of the institution housing the artwork
  • Location of the institution

Example:

Da Vinci, Leonardo. *Mona Lisa*. 1503–1506, Louvre Museum, Paris.

2. Art Viewed Online

For digital reproductions, include:

  • Artist’s name
  • Title of the artwork (in italics)
  • Date of creation
  • Name of the website or database
  • URL
  • Date of access (optional but recommended)

Example:

Van Gogh, Vincent. *Starry Night*. 1889, Museum of Modern Art, www.moma.org/collection/works/79802. Accessed 15 Oct. 2023.

3. Art from a Book or Catalog

If you’re referencing a reproduction in a book, add:

  • Artist’s name
  • Title of the artwork (in italics)
  • Date of creation
  • Title of the book (in italics)
  • Author or editor of the book
  • Publisher
  • Year of publication
  • Page number

Example:

Kahlo, Frida. *The Two Fridas*. 1939, *Frida Kahlo: The Complete Paintings*, edited by Luis-Martín Lozano, Taschen, 2021, p. 45.

The Chaos of Art Citations

Now, let’s dive into the chaos. Why is citing art so tricky? For starters, art doesn’t always come with clear labels. A painting might have multiple titles, disputed dates, or even unknown creators (looking at you, Portrait of a Man in a Red Turban). And don’t get me started on digital art—how do you cite an NFT that exists only in the blockchain? It’s like trying to pin down a shadow.

Tips for Citing Art Like a Pro

  1. Double-Check Your Sources: Museums and galleries often provide detailed information on their websites. Use this as your primary source.
  2. Be Consistent: Stick to MLA formatting guidelines, even if the artwork’s details are incomplete.
  3. Embrace the Chaos: Sometimes, art citations require creativity. If you can’t find a specific detail, make a note of it in your citation (e.g., “Date unknown”).

FAQs

Q: How do I cite a sculpture? A: Follow the same format as a painting, but specify the medium if it’s relevant (e.g., “Marble sculpture”).

Q: What if the artist is unknown? A: Start the citation with the title of the artwork (e.g., Portrait of a Man in a Red Turban).

Q: How do I cite street art or graffiti? A: Treat it like any other artwork, but include the location where it’s displayed (e.g., “Banksy. Girl with Balloon. 2002, London”).

Q: Can I cite an NFT? A: Yes! Include the artist’s name, title of the NFT, platform (e.g., OpenSea), and URL.

Citing art in MLA may feel like navigating a maze, but with practice, it becomes second nature. And remember, just like art itself, citations are a form of expression—so don’t be afraid to add your own flair!