How to classify and describe art. Properties of Art How to classify and describe art.
Referring to the visual aspects of art. form
Actual vs Implied Lines
Contour and Psychological Lines
Geometric and Biomorphic (Organic) Shape
Open and Closed Shape
Color or Hue Secondary: orange, green, Primary: red, yellow, blue violet Primary: red, yellow, blue Intermediate/tertiary: Mix primary and secondary together Complementary: opposite
Warm and Cool Colors Can you have a warm green? Can you have a cool red?
Value
Saturation/Intensity
Texture (implied and actual)
Space/Perspective
Mass and Volume
Composition
Foreground/Background
Symmetrical and Asymetrical
Balance
Positive and Negative Space
Subject matter Content
What do you do when art is non-representational? Use formal elements of art to describe the work. Art without a subject matter will usually have a meaning. Provide context. Provide interpretation.
Combination of form and composition Style
Period Style-common traits of a particular historical era.
Regional Style-stylistic traits that are common within a geographical region.
Representational Style-give a realistic or lifelike appearance of the subject matter. Naturalism/realism Idealism Illusionism
Abstract Styles-captures the essence of a form. Non-representational/Non-objective Expressionism
Linear
Painterly
Materials and process of which art is made. Medium and technique
Painting Fresco, panel, illumination, scroll
Mosaic and Stained Glass
Graphic Arts Drawing Printmaking Cartoons Web design
Photography
Sculpture Relief Free standing
Ephemeral Arts-performance art, earthworks, cinema, video
Architecture