General Art Terms

The materials and tools used by the artist to create a work of art.

The manner and skill in which the artist uses tools and materials to achieve an expressive effect.

Aptitude, skill, or manual dexterity in the use of tools and materials

The approach to art in which the forms used by the artist are essentially descriptive of things that the artist sees.

Forms created by the artist but usually derived from objects actually observed or experienced. Usually forms are simplified or rearranged to suit the needs of the artistic expression. Often there is little resemblance to the original object.

The quality or sensation of pleasure, enjoyment, disturbance, or meaning people can experience in viewing works of art. It is a study of these emotions involving the psychology, sociology, and philosophy of art.

A work of art that has no recognizable subject matter.

In descriptive art style, refers to the persons or things represented; In abstract and nonobjective art, refers to the basic character of all the visual signs employed by the artist.

The specific artistic character and dominant form trends noted in art movements. May also mean artist's expressive use of media to given an individual character to his work.

The arbitrary organization or inventive arrangement of all of the visual elements in an attempt to develop a unity in the total work of art.

The totality of the work of art. The organization (design) of all elements that make up the work of art.

The essential meaning, significance, or aesthetic value of an art form. Refers to the sensory, psychological, or emotional properties that one tends to "feel" in a work of art as opposed to the perception of mere descriptive aspects.

A form of expression which retains the basic impression of visual reality but, in addition, attempts to relate and interpret the universal meanings which lie underneath the surface of appearance of natural forms.