Towards comprehensive artwork representation: Motivations and challenges in capturing multi-dimensional art descriptions

This paper explores the motivations and challenges in developing a comprehensive framework for artwork representation. Current artwork-related ontologies and description methods often fall short in capturing the multi-faceted nature of artworks, focusing primarily on basic metadata or specific aspects while neglecting others. We propose a conceptual framework for an ontology that integrates descriptive, contextual, and interpretive aspects of artworks, addressing the limitations of existing models. The paper discusses the potential benefits of this holistic approach for art education, public appreciation, and digital accessibility. Key challenges are identified, including capturing complex visual elements, balancing objectivity with subjectivity in interpretation, and representing the multiple layers of meaning in artworks. The proposed framework aims to enhance the quality and depth of artwork representation, potentially facilitating the development of automated systems for artwork analysis and description.