fundamentals of art appreciation

Shape

It is a two-dimensional design encased by lines to signify its height and width. Shapes are used to provide a symbolic and faux feeling, and they can have different

colours to make it seem three-dimensional

Space

It is an area or surface occupied by the artwork. The space is primarily seen through “top-bottom” and “left-right” dimensions. Even an object is hollow, its inside is part of the space it occupies

Positive space

Refers to the areas of the work with a subject

Negative space

Is the space without a subject. Artists use spacing to create different effects

Perspective

As it is associated to Space, it is synonymous

with point of view, angle of vision, or frame of

reference. It is the point where the artist stands

to view his subject.

- Perspective refers to the location and distance

upon the appearance of an object by which our

eyes judge spatial relationships (nearness and

farness).

Form

This is a three-dimensional object that can be held and walked around. It refers to the overall composition of the artwork. It describes the entire shape or organization of the thing or object created

Value

Degree of perceivable lightness of tones within an image

Contrast

Difference in values is called ____ it references the lightest and darkest tones within grey variants in between a work of art

Volume

Some references prefer to call it “____ ” which pertains to solidity or thickness. It is the amount of space occupied by an object in three dimensions. Volume is perceived by contour lines (outlines) and by surface of light and

shadows.

Texture

It is the element associated with the sense of touch. It is the surface characteristics or quality of an area. The tactile effect being produced is dependent on the medium or material he uses, especially in sculpting.

Line

It is a series of connected dots or prolongation of a point to show the shape or form of any piece of art

Vertical lines

are straight up and down lines that are moving in space without any slant and are perpendicular to horizontal lines. They suggest height and strength because they extend towards the sky and seem unshakeable.

Horizontal lines

are straight lines parallel to the horizon that move from left to right. They suggest width, distance, calmness, and stability.

Diagonal lines

are straight lines that slant in any direction except horizontal or vertical. When in use, they suggest movement or lack of stability.

Curved lines

are a series of diagonal lines joined at ends. They can convey action and excitement, as well as restlessness and anxiety.

Color

It is the spectrum of light broken down when hitting a surface and reflected into the eye.

- is the most noticeable element that appeals to the visual sense. This is the quality of an object with respect to light and reflected by it.

Composition

in art is a combination of all the physical attributes which make up a single artwork. In visual arts, composition is often referred to as a way to arrange the artwork. Good artists understand how to use physical properties of art to create a story through a piece of work

Harmony/unity

It is the most essential factor in a composition. It is achieved when all the elements of a thing are put together to come up with a coherent whole. Every

part is necessary to the composition, to the extent that all the parts exhibit a sense of belonging together and a pleasing relationship with one

another.

Balance

Known as “physical equilibrium,” it is the stability produced by even distribution of weight on each side of the thing.

Informal (asymmetrical or occult) balance

- It is present when the left and right sides of

the thing, though not identical in appearance, still

display an even distribution of weight

Radial balance

It is present when the

elements are arranged

around a central point and

may be similar.