ART 1 Final Study Guide: Key Terms, Color Theory, Perspective, and Drawing Techniques

Contour

A line that shows the edges and surface ridges of an object.

Outline

The outer edge or shape of an object, drawn simply.

Expressive

Lines that show emotion or movement.

Hatching

Drawing closely spaced parallel lines to create shading or texture.

Primary Colors

Red, yellow, blue—cannot be made by mixing other colors.

Secondary Colors

Green, orange, purple—made by mixing two primary colors.

Intermediate Colors

Colors made by mixing a primary and secondary color (e.g., red-orange).

Color Wheel

A circular chart showing color relationships.

Color Harmonies

Combinations that look good together (e.g., complementary, analogous).

Complementary

Colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., blue & orange).

Split Complementary

A color plus the two colors next to its complement (e.g., blue with red-orange and yellow-orange).

Analogous

Colors next to each other on the color wheel (e.g., green, blue-green, blue).

Monochromatic

Different values of a single color.

Intensity

Brightness or dullness of a color.

Value

Lightness or darkness of a color.

Hue

Another word for color.

Focal Point

The main area of interest in an artwork.

Shapes

Flat, 2D areas (circle, square).

Forms

3D objects (sphere, cube).

Horizon Line

Where the sky meets the ground in a picture.

Vanishing Point

The spot where parallel lines seem to meet in the distance.

2-Point Perspective

Drawing technique with two vanishing points for realistic space.

Acrylic Paint

Paint with a plastic binder, dries fast and is water-resistant.

Proportion

The size relationship between parts of an object.

Colored Pencil Techniques

Methods like layering, blending, and burnishing to create effects.

Foreground

The part of the picture closest to the viewer.

Background

The part farthest from the viewer.

Positive Space

The subject or main objects in an artwork.

Negative Space

The empty space around and between subjects.

Shadows

Dark areas where light is blocked.

Highlights

Bright spots where light hits directly.

Value Scale

A chart showing a range from light to dark.

Value Gradient

A smooth change from light to dark.

Pattern

Repeated design or motif.

Measuring/Drawing Techniques

Using tools and sighting methods to get accurate sizes and proportions.