6. ARTA 111- Elements of Art

ART APPRECIATION

Introduction to the Study of Visual Arts

Art appreciation involves understanding and analyzing both the aesthetic and contextual dimensions of artworks. It encompasses various aspects such as historical significance, cultural contexts, emotional responses, and the techniques utilized by artists.

Visual Elements

Visual elements are the fundamental components used to create and analyze works of art. These elements serve as the building blocks for visual communication in art.

The Elements of Visual Arts

  • LINES

  • COLORS

  • TEXTURE

  • PERSPECTIVE

  • SPACE

  • FORM

  • VOLUME

Lines

Definition

A line is a mark made on a surface that describes a shape or outline. It can vary in thickness, length, and texture, and it plays a crucial role in the overall composition of art. Lines can also create the illusion of movement and can effectively convey emotion.

Types of Lines

  • Actual Lines: Physical lines that are actually drawn.

  • Implied Lines: Suggested lines that guide the viewer's eye, though not physically present.

  • Vertical Lines: Convey a sense of height, action, balance, and dignity.

  • Horizontal Lines: Represent calmness, tranquility, and stability.

  • Diagonal Lines: Suggest movement, dynamism, and tension.

  • Contour Lines: Define the edges of shapes in a piece of art.

Functions of Lines

Lines serve various functions, including describing shapes, creating textures, and guiding the viewer’s eye through a composition. They can express different feelings and moods, establishing a foundational layer in visual storytelling.

Leading Lines in Photography

In photography, leading lines are used to draw the viewer’s attention toward a focal point. They can enhance the depth and perspective of an image. Photographers often utilize the rule of thirds along with these lines to create balanced and impactful images.

Color Theory

Definition

Color theory refers to the visual perception of light reflected from surfaces. Colors influence the moods and emotions both in artworks and in the viewers experiencing them.

Types of Colors

  • Primary Colors: Red, blue, and yellow, which cannot be made by mixing other colors.

  • Secondary Colors: Green, orange, and purple, formed by mixing primary colors.

  • Tertiary Colors: Combinations of primary and secondary colors.

  • Warm and Cool Colors: Colors are categorized into warm (reds, oranges, yellows) and cool (blues, greens, violets) based on their emotional impact.

Color Schemes and Meanings

Different color schemes evoke various emotions and themes:

  • Complementary Colors: Opposite colors on the color wheel that create contrast.

  • Analogous Colors: Colors next to each other on the color wheel that create harmony.

  • Monochromatic Colors: Variations in lightness and saturation of a single hue.

Psychological Effects of Colors

Color affects human psychology:

  • Red: Evokes passion and danger.

  • Blue: Conveys tranquility and reliability.

  • Green: Represents growth and harmony.

  • Yellow: Stimulates feelings of joy and energy.

Attributes of Color

  • Hue: The actual color (e.g., red, blue).

  • Value: The lightness or darkness of a color.

  • Tints, Shades, Intensity: Modifications of a color's brightness.

Attributes of Color (continued)

The color wheel is an essential tool for understanding the relationships between different hues, emphasizing how they can complement each other.

Texture

Texture relates to the sense of touch, describing how surfaces feel or appear in art—whether rough, smooth, soft, or hard. Artists use texture to add depth and interest to their works.

Types of Texture

  • Implied Texture: A visual representation suggesting how an object might feel.

  • Actual Texture: The real, physical texture that can be felt by touch.

Perspective

Perspective in art describes the technique used to depict three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface, thereby creating an illusion of depth and space.

Types of Perspective

  • Linear Perspective: A mathematical system for representing depth where parallel lines converge at a vanishing point.

  • Aerial Perspective: Objects appear lighter and less distinct the further away they are from the viewer, simulating atmospheric conditions.

Space

Space refers to the area around and between objects in a composition. Artists manipulate space to create depth, inviting viewers to engage with the work in a more immersive way.

Types of Space

  • Positive Space: Areas of interest in a composition, often where the subject matter is located.

  • Negative Space: The area surrounding the positive space, which can define the boundaries of the art and enhance the overall balance.

Form and Volume

  • Form: The overall shape and structure of an object, categorizing it as either geometric (e.g., squares, circles) or organic (e.g., natural forms).

  • Volume: The three-dimensional space an object occupies, including its solidity and thickness; this attribute is crucial in sculpture and three-dimensional art.

References

  • Fichner-Rathus, L. (2010). Foundations of Art and Design. USA: Thomson Learning Inc.

  • Rich, S. (2005). Kenneth Cobonpue. Retrieved from http://inhabitat.com/kenneth-cobonpue/

  • Callow, R. (2014). Photo Gallery: Leading Lines in Photography. Retrieved from http://blog.posterjack.ca/2014/01/21/photo-gallery-leading-lines-in-photography/