What aspect of art is typically involved with the analysis of materials and techniques?

The aspect of art that focuses on the analysis of materials and techniques is the formal approach. This method emphasizes the visual elements of an artwork, such as line, color, shape, texture, and composition, and examines how these components are manipulated to create meaning and evoke responses. By understanding the materials (such as paint, canvas, or sculpture medium) and the techniques (like brushwork, carving, or printmaking), one gains insight into the artist's choices and intentions.

Formal analysis allows viewers and critics to explore how an artwork achieves its aesthetic effects and communicates ideas through its construction. This approach is particularly essential in evaluation and appreciation, as it does not necessarily consider the external context, such as historical or cultural influences, but rather focuses solely on the artwork itself and its intrinsic properties.