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?
