Art Terminology Flashcards

Art Terminology

• Abstract shapes: Simplified and flat representations of three-dimensional objects, emphasizing form over realism.

• Asymmetrical balance: The composition is balanced through a large simple shape and a smaller, more complex shape, creating visual interest without symmetry.

• Atmospheric perspective: A technique that uses color and value to simulate depth, making distant objects appear lighter and less defined.

• Balance: The arrangement of elements in an artwork that creates a feeling of stability or harmony.

• Complementary colors: Colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, creating strong contrast when paired.

• Contour lines: Lines that define the edges and outlines of shapes, helping to clarify form.

• Contrast: The variation in values, colors, or elements in an artwork that highlights differences and creates visual interest.

• Crosshatching: A shading technique involving intersecting parallel lines to create texture and depth.

• Emphasis: The technique of highlighting the focal area of a work, drawing the viewer's attention.

• Expressive lines: Lines that convey emotions or meaning, varying in weight to enhance the artwork's impact.

• Form: Refers to three-dimensional objects with length, width, and height, which can be perceived from multiple angles.

• Geometric shapes: Precise, regular shapes defined by mathematical properties, often creating a sense of order.

• Gestural lines: Lines that capture movement and energy, making the artwork feel dynamic.

• Hatching: A shading method involving closely spaced parallel lines drawn at an angle to indicate texture or volume.

• Hue: Another term for color, referring to a specific wavelength of light.

• Implied lines: Lines that are suggested rather than explicitly drawn, created through placement of dots or dashes.

• Implied texture: Techniques used in painting or drawing to create the illusion of texture while retaining a smooth surface.

• Intensity: The brightness or dullness of a color, influencing the overall tone and mood of the artwork.

• Intermediate colors: Colors produced by mixing a primary color with its adjacent secondary color, adding complexity to the palette.

• Linear perspective: A mathematical system that creates the illusion of depth on a flat surface by converging lines at a vanishing point.

• Movement: A compositional strategy that guides the viewer's eye throughout the artwork, leading to the focal point.

• Negative shapes: Spaces surrounding positive shapes, often representing the background and contributing to overall composition.

• Organic shapes: Irregular shapes that mimic forms found in nature, enhancing a more naturalistic feel.

• Pattern: A design motif that repeats elements, contributing to texture and rhythm within a work.

• Positive shapes: The main shapes in an artwork that occupy visual space and are the focus of attention.

• Primary colors: The fundamental colors (red, yellow, blue) that cannot be created by mixing other colors.

• Radial balance: A composition technique where all elements radiate from a central point, creating equal weight visually around a focal point.

• Rhythm: The repeated use of shapes and lines that creates a sense of movement and organization within the artwork.

• Secondary colors: Colors formed by mixing equal parts of two primary colors, adding richness to the color palette.

• Shade: A darker version of a color created by adding black, altering its value.

• Symmetrical balance: A harmonious arrangement where two sides of the artwork reflect each other, creating visual equilibrium.

• Texture: The surface quality of an artwork, which can be actual (tactile) or implied (visual).

• Tint: A lighter version of a color created by adding white, changing its value and tone.

• Unity: The cohesive quality in an artwork where all elements work together harmoniously, creating a sense of completeness.

• Value: The lightness or darkness of a color, crucial in creating contrast and depth in artwork.

• Variety of elements: The use of different shapes, colors, sizes, and textures to create interest and prevent monotony in art.