Basic Art Terms

Front

Line

Back

A mark with length and direction, can be straight or curved.

Front

Shape

Back

A two-dimensional area with a defined boundary, like a circle or square.

Front

Form

Back

A three-dimensional object, like a cube or sphere.

Front

Colour

Back

The aspect of things caused by differing qualities of light reflected or emitted.

Front

Texture

Back

The feel or appearance of a surface, like smooth or rough.

Front

Space

Back

The area around, between, or within components of a piece.

Front

Value

Back

The lightness or darkness of a colour.

Front

Balance

Back

The distribution of visual weight in a work of art.

Front

Contrast

Back

The difference between elements, such as light and dark.

Front

Emphasis

Back

The part of the design that catches the viewer's attention.