Originals and Reproductions: The Influence of Presentation Format in Adolescents' Responses to a Renaissance Painting

Abstract

This is a qualitative examination of how the presentation mode of a Renaissance painting—original artwork, printed reproduction, or digital reproduction—influences the critical responses of adolescents. In contrast to prior experimental research in this area, the findings of this study provide insights into the experiential dimensions of students' responses. The findings suggest that both originals and reproductions can be the source of meaningful experiences and that there is considerable consistency in children's responses across presentation modes. Nevertheless, the varying qualities of the different formats can lead to diverging responses. Tactile experiences, reflection regarding materials, and consideration of the artist's process occurred only in response to the original painting. Participants preferred the original painting to both reproductions, and they favored the postcard over the digital image. These preferences were influenced by the physical properties of the three pictures and by viewers' notions about the status of original art in Western society.