Art Terms and Definitions — Z

art reference and descriptions

An art reference and descriptions beginning with the letter “Z”. It has art-related definitions that will aid in your understanding of basic art principles. Art words from Z-PATTERN LAYOUT to ZOOMORPHIC.

Quick links to more art reference and descriptions are located at the end of the list.

Z-Pattern Layout

The path the human eyes travel when they read—left to right, top to bottom. First, the eyes scan from the top left to the top right, then down and to the left side, and last, back across to the right again. When the viewers’ eyes move in this pattern, it forms an imaginary “Z” shape.

Zackenstil

A German word from the 13th century that means “jagged style.” Zackenstil is a zig-zag style used in sculpture, painting, stained glass, and manuscript illumination.

Zenga

art reference and descriptions

A style of Japanese calligraphy and painting done in ink. Often, both calligraphy and image will be in the same piece of art.

Zentangle

A self-help, meditative art therapy practice involving the creation of structured doodle designs through drawing various repetitive patterns. This art form is intended to enhance relaxation, inner focus, and build self-confidence.

Zero-point Perspective

A technique that creates the illusion of depth without parallel lines in an image, allowing for a sense of depth without vanishing points. This technique is commonly used in natural settings like mountain ranges or landscapes. Also referred to as “atmospheric perspective” or “aerial perspective.”

Zinc White

A common white pigment. Zinc white is a brilliant white synthetically derived from the metal zinc.

Zincography

A printing process that uses zinc plates instead of stone plates made from fine lithographic limestone.

Zinnober Green

Another name for chrome green.

Zoomorphic

Describes forms of art and ornaments based on the shape, form, or likeness of an animal.

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This glossary of art terms is provided as a valuable resource for art enthusiasts. If you like the information here and find it helpful, please consider purchasing a painting. Your support helps to cover the cost of keeping this art reference and descriptions lexicon online. Simply click or tap the thumbnail link of any Teresa Bernard oil painting to view additional details.

wild animal oil paintings
Eye of The Zebra 
(2021)
9″ w x 12″ h
rural area painted compositions
Lighthouse, Palo Duro Canyon (2016)
16″ w x 12″ h
sunflower paintings
Sunflower From Behind (2016)
20″ w x 16″ h

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Contributing to The Art Dictionary

The art reference and descriptions dictionary is a work in progress. New terms and definitions are added on a regular basis. If you know of an art term and definition that isn’t already listed in it but you believe it should be, send it to us and we’ll consider adding it. We’ll let you know if we do. Thanks!

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