IELTS Speaking Part 2: Describe your favorite painting/drawing

Describe your favorite painting/drawing

You should say:

• Where did you first see the artist

• What the painting is about

• Who the painter is

And explain why do you enjoy it?

Ideas for the IELTS Speaking Question:

1. Famous Artwork: A well-known painting from a renowned artist.
2. Local Art Gallery: A painting displayed in a local gallery or exhibition.
3. Online Platform: A digital artwork discovered on an online art platform.
4. Personal Creation: A favorite painting or drawing created by yourself or someone you know.
5. Historical Artwork: A painting with historical significance or cultural relevance.
6. Abstract Art: A piece of abstract art that captivates you.

Useful Expressions:

1. Introducing the Painting:
   • “I’d like to talk about a painting that has always held a special place in my heart.”
   • “The artwork I’m going to discuss is…”
   • “This painting is particularly meaningful to me because…”
2. Where You First Saw the Artwork:
   • “I first encountered this painting…”
   • “The first time I laid eyes on it was at…”
   • “I came across this artwork in…”
3. What the Painting is About:
   • “The painting depicts…”
   • “The central theme of the artwork revolves around…”
   • “The artist conveys a message of…”
4. Who the Painter Is:
   • “The artist behind this masterpiece is…”
   • “The painting was created by the renowned artist…”
   • “The creator of this artwork is none other than…”
5. Why You Enjoy It:
   • “What draws me to this painting is…”
   • “The colors and brushstrokes evoke a sense of…”
   • “The way the artist captures emotions resonates with me because…”

Sample Answer:

“I’d like to talk about my favorite painting, which is a masterpiece created by Vincent van Gogh titled ‘Starry Night.’ I first saw this painting in a museum during a trip to New York City, and the experience left a lasting impression on me.

‘Starry Night’ is a captivating depiction of a night sky filled with swirling stars, a tranquil village, and a cypress tree. The colors and the dynamic, swirling patterns in the sky give the painting a sense of movement and energy. It’s as if van Gogh has captured the essence of a dreamy, mystical night.

Vincent van Gogh, the Dutch post-impressionist artist, is renowned for his unique style and emotional intensity in his works. ‘Starry Night’ is a prime example of his ability to convey emotion through vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes.

What I enjoy about this painting is the emotional depth it carries. The swirling sky and the contrasting elements create a sense of mystery and contemplation. There’s a serene beauty in the chaos of the night, and I find the painting to be both calming and thought-provoking. It’s a piece of art that I can look at for hours, discovering new details each time. ‘Starry Night’ has become a source of inspiration for me, reminding me of the beauty that can be found in the midst of life’s complexities.”