Drawing Terms

Front

The way the parts of an artwork are arranged, according to the Principles of Art.

Back

Composition

Front

A single line drawing which defines the outer and inner edges of forms such as people and objects.

Back

Contour Drawing

Front

The near appearance of an artwork as evidenced by time, effort, and attention to detail. Care is taken to be precise, neat and careful.

Back

Craftsmanship

Front

A value that goes from light to dark with little to no noticeable divisions or lines.

Back

Graded Value

Front

The focal point of an image, or when one area or thing stands out the most.

Back

Emphasis

Front

Empty area of an artwork that surrounds the subject matter.

Back

Negative Space

Front

Using compared lengths judged by holding the pencil at arm's length to draw correct proportions. Also used to compare angles and levels.

Back

Measuring/Sighting

Front

A way of drawing that shows space by such methods as overlapping objects, using lighter values for distant objects, using less detail in distant objects, or using lines that appear to vanish at a point on the horizon.

Back

Perspective

Front

The part of an artwork that is filled with something.

Back

Positive Space

Front

The comparative relationship of one part to another with respect to size, quantity, or degree; SCALE

Back

Proportion