Contemporary Arts: Elements of Art

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes covering the basic elements of art, line functions, color theory, value, texture, and design.

Space

An element of art that pertains to emptiness.

Positive Space

The part of space that is enclosed in a shape.

Negative Space

The opposite part of space that the shape is enclosing.

Line

A series of points that has two characteristics: form (curved, dotted, or broken) and direction (vertical, horizontal, diagonal).

Line (in Theater)

Pertains to the script.

Line (in Dance)

The routine of steps.

Shape

A two-dimensional figure with length and width, formed by connecting both ends of a line.

Form

A three-dimensional figure with the same dimensions as a shape except with added depth, which does not feel flat.

Color

An element created when light bounces off an object and reaches our eyes, which may have lightness or darkness, or coolness or warmth.

Primary Colors

Red, Blue, and Yellow.

Secondary Colors

Orange, Green, and Purple.

Tertiary Colors

Colors created by mixing primary and secondary colors.

Red (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with passion, anger, love, and energy.

Blue (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with calm, sadness, and peace.

Yellow (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with happiness, warmth, and alertness.

Green (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with nature, growth, and calm.

Purple (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with royalty, mystery, and creativity.

Black (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with power, elegance, and mourning.

White (Emotional/Mood Association)

Associated with purity, innocence, and peace.

Value

A property of color that pertains to its lightness or darkness.

High Contrast (Value)

Creates drama by using light vs dark areas to make the subject stand out.

Low Contrast (Value)

Creates a calm or soft mood.

Texture

The tactile or illusory surface of the piece.

Actual Texture

A surface where paint is applied thickly, making raised brushstrokes and knife marks visible.

Implied Texture

A surface where the artwork is smooth to the touch, and texture is seen, not felt.

Design

The overall structure of an art form, plan for order, or the organization of the elements.