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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Although Irwin is not a good student, he is welcome where?

2. Who early on takes note of Robert's natural talent?

3. The genesis of Irwin's artistry is _____________.

4. Irwin attributes his success at this gallery, at least in part, to what?

5. After graduating from high school, Robert's buddies convince him to join them in doing what?

Short Essay Questions

1. What takes place between 1962 and 1964?

2. What did critics say about Irwin's work at this time?

3. What does Irwin do regarding the canvas to make the edges less noticeable?

4. Describe Irwin's time as an art student at Otis Art Institute.

5. How are Irwin's relationships with others affected? Why?

6. How do those who grow up in this community view the world?

7. What is the mystery that remains regarding Robert Irwin?

8. What evidence of art was see in Irwin's childhood?

9. Describe Irwin's liberal thinking.

10. What is the purpose of this section? How does Robert begin his first series of work at this time?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Critics have a difficult time pinning Irwin to one style.

Part 1) Describe the various styles to which Irwin had been temporarily pinned. How does his work reflect each of these styles?

Part 2) Why is it so difficult to pin Irwin to one style? Does Irwin want to be pinned? Why or why not? Why do critics want to pin him to one style?

Part 3) How important are various styles of art? Is it necessary for one to create a specific style of art in a specific genre and medium? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Irwin spends time in the desert.

Part 1) Describe Irwin's time in the desert. Why does he decide to spend time in the desert? How is this decision related to his feelings about his art?

Part 2) How does Irwin benefit from this time in the desert? How does it affect his art? How do his feelings while he is in the desert reflect his personality?

Part 3) Describe a place you have gone that give you a sense of peace or renewed energy. Why did this place have this kind of power? Have you returned to this place? Why or why not? Would you like to return to this place? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Robert moves to Europe.

Part 1) Describe this move to Europe. What does he learn while in Europe? Could he have learned this in the states? Why or why not?

Part 2) What does the reader learn about Irwin during this time? How does this time influence him later in life?

Part 3) Would you ever want to live outside the U.S.? If so, where and why? If not, why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,175 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample