The Elements of Art

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What is a line in art?

Back

A line is a path made by a moving point through space. It is one-dimensional and can vary in width, direction, and length. It has a beginning point and a different end point. Lines define the edges of shapes and forms.

Front

What are shapes in art?

Back

Shapes are flat, enclosed areas that are two-dimensional (length and height). Artists use both geometric and organic shapes.

Front

What is color in art?

Back

Color is perceived by the way light reflects off a surface. There are three properties of color: hue (color name), intensity (strength/purity), and value (lightness and darkness).

Front

What does value describe in art?

Back

Value describes the lightness or darkness of a surface.

Front

What is texture in art?

Back

Texture describes the surface quality of an object. Artists use both actual texture (how things feel) and implied texture (how things look like they feel).

Front

What is space in art?

Back

Space is used to create the illusion of depth within an artwork. It can also refer to the positive and negative space between, around, or within objects.

Front

What are forms in art?

Back

Forms are three-dimensional (length, width, height) and can be viewed from many angles. Forms have volume and take up space.