Formulate a thesis: Once you have thought through these pictorial matters, formulate an argument about the sculpture which addresses the following: What kinds of messages does this painting convey through combined style and subject matter? Consider whether such messages concern aesthetic problems, philosophical ideas, psychological states, social relations, politics, religion, cultural tradition, stereotyping, etc. But remember that you are primarily trying to draw conclusions from the images rather than making the images fit conclusions that you bring to them. Write a draft of your essay. Then go back and rewrite again (and again) until your paper says what you wish it to say in a clear and direct manner. Read it aloudto yourself or a friend. Does it sound right?