Observe and describe the details of the painting in an objective manner, such as the presence of contrasting colors and shapes, the type of brushstrokes used, the subject's size relative to its surroundings and the direction and nature of the light source present in the image. You are essentially describing what you are seeing as you view the work, so maintain your objectivity during this process.
Analyze the objective observations you made by discussing how the elements in the painting work with each other. For example, explain how contrasting colors and shades are balanced or unbalanced. Explain the path your eyes take when viewing the subject or subjects, and if their placement creates a sense of rhythm and movement. Discuss the amount of contrast the light source and its shadows create and if it's effective. Define the overall style of the painting, such as realistic, abstract or minimalist.
Explain your interpretation of the painting and how it makes you feel on a subjective level. Describe your subjective process as you viewed the painting, such as how the colors made you feel and what they remind you of. Elaborate on the sense of liveliness, time and place that the painting evokes and if the piece works on a conceptual level.
Judge the painting as a whole by summarizing your experience with it. Decide if the piece successfully conveys what the artist intended to express, your level of enjoyment and if the piece is original or unoriginal in your opinion.