One of the first things we like to do when we encounter a work of art is to decide whether we like it or not. Our reactions to artwork are individual. Going beyond an initial response and discovering the reasons underlying why we like or dislike an artwork can be clarified by using the elements of art.
Art students use the elements of art to analyze a piece of art before responding to the more sensory information. Students also use the elements of art to help articulate and refine their visual perceptions.
While viewing a particular sculpture there are many exercises that can enhance understanding:

Concentration

• look quickly, then turn your back. In your mind or with a friend describe the work without looking until you can't think of anything else.
• turn and look at the sculpture again for over a minute.
• when you look again what new things did you find?

Make a List

• View the sculpture with a friend
• Use the elements of art and add a comment in each category
• Compare and contrast your list with your friend and discuss the differences and similarities

Compare and Contrast

• After viewing one sculpture, visit another sculpture.
• Come back to the first sculpture and describe the similarities or differences using the elements of sculpture.

Immersion

• If you can touch the sculpture, rub you hands over the surface and describe how it feels
• Look closely as if using a magnifying glass, then step back 10 feet and look again
• If possible walk under it, through it, and stick your hand in the negative spaces