how to mla cite a painting

When considering the MLA citation for a painting, it’s essential to delve into the nuances that distinguish this type of artwork from other forms of creative expression.

MLA Citation for a Painting

When citing a painting in an academic or scholarly context according to the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines, there are several key elements to consider. Unlike citations for books, articles, or other textual works, paintings require specific details about their location and medium to ensure proper attribution. The basic structure of an MLA citation for a painting includes the author (if known), title of the work, title of the exhibition or collection, name of the museum or gallery, city and state where the work is located, and date of the exhibition or collection.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly cite a painting:

Basic Format

[Author] [Title of the Work]. [Title of the Exhibition or Collection]. [Museum or Gallery Name], [City and State], [Year of Exhibition or Collection].

For example:

• Van Gogh, Vincent. “Starry Night.” The Museum of Modern Art, New York, 1902.

Additional Elements

If the painting is part of a larger work (such as a series or a set of prints), include the title of the series or set. If the painting is reproduced in a book or publication, note the page number(s).

[Author] [Title of the Work]. [Title of the Exhibition or Collection]. [Museum or Gallery Name], [City and State], [Year of Exhibition or Collection]. [Page Numbers]

For instance:

• Van Gogh, Vincent. “Starry Night.” Starry Night Series. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1902. p. 34.

Publication Information

If the painting has been published in a book, provide the publisher’s name, the place of publication, and the year of publication.

[Author] [Title of the Work]. [Title of the Exhibition or Collection]. [Museum or Gallery Name], [City and State], [Year of Exhibition or Collection]. [Page Numbers]. [Publisher Name], [Place of Publication], [Year of Publication].

Example:

• Van Gogh, Vincent. “Starry Night.” Starry Night Series. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1902. p. 34. Phaidon Press, London, 2010.

Digital Citations

For digital reproductions, include the URL or DOI if available, along with the date accessed.

[Author] [Title of the Work]. [Title of the Exhibition or Collection]. [Museum or Gallery Name], [City and State], [Year of Exhibition or Collection]. [Page Numbers]. [URL/DOI], [Accessed Date].

Example:

• Van Gogh, Vincent. “Starry Night.” Starry Night Series. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1902. p. 34. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/56286, [Accessed October 15, 2023].

Conclusion

Incorporating these elements ensures that your citation is complete and accurate, providing readers with all necessary information to locate and verify the source. By following the MLA guidelines for painting citations, you can maintain academic integrity and respect the rights of artists and institutions.