In this activity, you will need pencil, paper and a collection of music to play. When we use this activity at MoMA, we often use an mp3 player, or radio and speakers. Take one minute to look at the work of Art. Don't do anything other than look at it, exploring as many details as you can. Even if you have seen this work of art before, try to explore it with fresh eyes for a full minute. Now, write down as many adjectives you can think of to describe what you see. Once you have finished your list of words, read the words on your list out loud as you look at the painting. Next, think about what sounds you would associate with each word on your list. For example, if one of the words was "chaotic". What would that sound like? Would the sound be loud or soft? Heavy and bold? Or light and subtle? Now think about a type of music that shares commonalities with both the painting and your word list. Once you have the music in your mind, try to find a piece of music, or a fragment or sound that you feel is representative of the work of art. Play it while you look at the painting one more time. Does the music you chose accurately reflect the mood or tone of the work of art? If not, then go back and start this process again until you identify a piece of music or even just a rhythm or sound bite that fits. What do you notice about the relationship between what you hear and what you see? If you wanted to do this with younger students, you could have them focus on just one or two visual elements such as lines and colors, and have them make their own sounds. You can also offer up three music options for them to choose from. Ask them which piece of music they think fits the work of art best and why. I often find that kids, especially younger ones, are much braver than adults in using their bodies and voices, so capitalize on that energy!