vocab for analysing artwork Flashcards
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.
Analogous
Closely related colors; a color scheme that combines several hues next to each other on
the color wheel.
Background
The part of the picture plane that seems to be farthest from the viewer.
Balance
The way in which the elements in visual arts are arranged to create a feeling of
equilibrium in an artwork.
The three types of balance are symmetry, asymmetry, and
radial.
Collage
An artistic composition made of various materials (e.g., paper, cloth, or wood) glued on a
surface
Color
The visual sensation dependent on the reflection or absorption of light from a given
surface. The three characteristics of colors are hue, intensity, and value.
Complementary colors
Colors opposite one another on the color wheel.
Eg; Red/green, blue/orange, yellow/violet
are complementary colors.
Composition
The overall placement and organization of elements in a work of art, as well as the
interrelationships between individual elements.
Content
The representations, messages, ideas and/or feelings expressed
Contrast
Differences between two or more elements in a composition. Also refers to the difference between lightest and darkest areas of an image.
Emphasis
Special attention or embellishment on an element, characteristic or object in a work of art that makes it stand out from others.
Negative space
Shapes or spaces that are or represent th areas unoccupied by objects.
Positive space
Shapes or spaces that represent solid objects or forms.
One-point perspective
A way to show 3D objects on a 2D surface.
(Lines appear to go away from the viewer and meet at a single point on the horizon known as the vanishing point.)
Still life
A specific type of visual artwork representing one or more inanimate object.
