Shape, Value, and Contrast Vocabulary

Question 0

not occupied by the subject matter, but which contribute to the composition. It is usually the background.

Answer 0

Negative shapes

Question 1

are the subject matter in an artwork; the objects depicted, as opposed to the background or space around those objects.

Answer 1

Positive shapes

Question 2

free form or irregular; the opposite of geometric shape.

Answer 2

Organic shapes

Question 3

can be defined precisely by mathematical coordinates and measurements

Answer 3

Geometric shapes

Question 4

refers to the lightness or darkness of grays and colors.

Answer 4

Value

Question 5

Describing colors or values that are light tints, creates by the use of white, such as in pastel colors. Values 1 – 3 on the gradation scale.

Answer 5

High-keyed

Question 6

Describing colors or values that are dark shades, usually creates by the use of black or gray. Values 7 – 9 on the gradation scale.

Answer 6

Low-keyed

Question 7

Dark and light values placed close together.

Answer 7

Value contrast

Question 8

The area of an artwork toward which the eye is directed first; the visual focal point of the work.

Answer 8

Center of interest

Question 9

An evenly stepped scale of values ( or tones) from white to black. This can apply to color as well.

Answer 9

Gradation

Question 10

A smooth passage of tone from one value to another.

Answer 10

Transition

Question 11

The arrangement of light and shadow. This technique was introduced by Italian artists during the Renaissance and used widely by Baroque artists. is also called modeling or shading.

Answer 11

Chiaroscuro