ART 111 Chapter 1.8

Taoism

An Eastern religion that emphasizes living in harmony through the Tao, or "Way," by balancing opposing forces (Yin and Yang).

Color

The optical effect caused when reflected white light of the spectrum is divided into separate wavelengths.

Outline

The outermost line or implied of an object or figure, by which it is defined or bounded.

Composition

The overall design or organization of a work.

Background

The part of a work depicted as behind the main figure.

Emphasis

The principle of drawing attention to particular content in a work.

Rhythm

The regular or ordered repetition of elements in the work.

Primary Colors

Three basic colors from which all others are derived.

Contrast

A drastic difference between such elements as color or value (lightness/darkness) when they are presented together.

Implied Line

A line not actually drawn but suggested by elements in the work.

Line

A mark, or implied mark, between two endpoints.

Woodcut

A print created from an incised piece of wood.

Principle

The "grammar" applied to the elements of art - contrast, balance, unity, variety, rhythm, emphasis, pattern, scale, proportion, and focal point.

Elements

The basic vocabulary of art - line, form, shape, volume, mass, color, texture, space, time and motion, value (lightness/darkness).

Focal Point

The center of interest or activity in a work of art, often drawing the viewer's attention to the most important element.

Value

The lightness or darkness of a plane or area.

Subordination

The opposite of emphasis; it draws our attention away from particular areas of a work.