| Term | Definition |
|---|
| abstract | Artwork in which the subject matter is stated in a brief, simplified manner. Little or no attempt is made to represent images realistically, and objects are often simplified or distorted. |
| aesthetics | A branch of philosophy; the study of art and theories about the nature and components of aesthetic experience. |
| art criticism | An organized system for looking at the visual arts; a process of appraising what students should know and be able to do. |
| arbitrary colors | Colors selected and used without reference to those found in reality. |
| asymmetry | A balance of parts on opposite sides of a perceived midline, giving the appearance of equal visual weight. |
| content | Message, idea, or feelings expressed in a work of art. |
| contour drawings | The drawing of an object as though the drawing tool is moving along all the edges and ridges of the form. |
| distortion | Condition of being twisted or bent out of shape. In art, this is often used as an expressive technique. |
| foreground | Part of a two-dimensional artwork that appears to be nearer the viewer or in the front. Middle ground and background are the parts of the picture that appear to be farther and farthest away. |
| background | The part of the picture plane that seems to be farthest from the viewer. |
| collage | An artistic composition made of various materials (e.g., paper, cloth, or wood) glued on a surface. |
| dominance | The importance of the emphasis of one aspect in relation to all other aspects of a design. |
| expressive content | The ideas and moods that art expresses. |
| figurative | Pertaining to representation of form or figure in art. |
| focal point | The place in a work of art on which attention becomes centered because of an element emphasized in some way. |
| function | The purpose and use of a work of art. |
| genre | The representation of people, subjects, and scenes from everyday life. |
| harmony | The principle of design that combines elements in a work of art to emphasize the similarities of separate but related parts. |
| line | A point moving in space. Line can vary in width, length, curvature, color, or direction |
| linear perspective | A graphic system used by artists to create the illusion of depth and volume on a flat surface. The lines of buildings and other objects in a picture are slanted, making them appear to extend back into space. |
Combine with other sets
Share on Facebook
Share on MySpace