Introduction
The IB Visual Arts exhibition is not just about displaying your best artworks — it’s about proving to examiners that you’ve grown as an artist, experimented with ideas, and curated a cohesive body of work. To do well, you need to understand exactly how examiners grade your exhibition.
This guide will break down the assessment criteria, explain what examiners prioritize, and show you how to maximize marks by aligning your exhibition with their expectations.
Why Understanding the Grading System Matters
Many students lose marks because they don’t fully understand the rubric. Knowing what examiners look for allows you to:
- Curate works more strategically.
- Write a stronger curatorial rationale.
- Avoid common mistakes.
- Showcase both variety and unity.
The IB Visual Arts Exhibition Rubric
Examiners grade the exhibition based on specific criteria. While the details may differ slightly between HL and SL, the core areas are consistent.
1. Coherence (Theme and Unity)
- Do your artworks connect as a unified body of work?
- Is there a clear theme or narrative running through your exhibition?
2. Technical Competence
- Have you demonstrated control and skill across your chosen media?
- Are your works finished, polished, and well-presented?
3. Variety and Exploration
- Have you explored different media, techniques, or approaches?
- Is there evidence of experimentation and risk-taking?
4. Conceptual Depth
- Do your artworks explore ideas and meaning, not just aesthetics?
- Have you connected to cultural, historical, or contemporary influences?
5. Curatorial Rationale
- Is your rationale clear, reflective, and well-written?
- Does it explain why you selected each piece and how they connect to your theme?
What Examiners Look for
Examiners are not just looking for “pretty” artworks — they want to see evidence of your artistic journey. Specifically, they look for:
- A balance between technical skill and conceptual thought.
- Artworks that show personal voice and originality.
- Works that link back to research and artist influences.
- A professional presentation that enhances the exhibition.
Tips to Align With Examiner Expectations
- Curate intentionally: Don’t include every artwork you’ve made. Select those that best represent your theme.
- Highlight growth: Show how your art has developed, even if it means including earlier experimental pieces.
- Write reflectively: Use your rationale to explain choices and connect ideas.
- Plan presentation: Ensure lighting, spacing, and labeling are professional and consistent.
FAQs on IB Visual Arts Grading
Q1: Do examiners care more about skill or ideas?
Both matter equally. Strong technical skills without meaningful ideas may seem shallow, while powerful ideas without execution can feel unfinished. Balance is key.
Q2: Can I still get high marks if I only work in one medium?
It’s possible, but examiners expect some variety. Even within one medium (e.g., painting), explore different styles, techniques, or scales.
Q3: How much does the curatorial rationale affect my grade?
A lot. A weak rationale can lower otherwise strong work because it shows examiners you haven’t thought deeply about your choices.
Q4: Do examiners prefer abstract or realistic works?
Neither. They are grading your ability to connect ideas, explore techniques, and present a coherent exhibition — not your style preference.
Q5: How can I check if my exhibition is examiner-ready?
Compare your work against the rubric, ask teachers for feedback, and ensure your rationale explains everything clearly.
Conclusion
Examiners grade IB Visual Arts exhibitions based on coherence, variety, technical competence, conceptual depth, and reflection. The strongest exhibitions are those that combine skill with meaning, experimentation with structure, and creativity with clarity. By understanding the rubric and aligning your exhibition with examiner expectations, you’ll maximize your chances of achieving top marks.
