Category: Glossary of Art Terms

T-SQUARE     |     TYPOGRAPHY

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

T-square

A technical drawing instrument used by draftsmen primarily as a guide for drawing horizontal lines on a drafting table. It resembles the letter “T,” with a long shaft called the “blade” and a short shaft called the “stock” or “head”. It’s a valuable tool for precise and straight-line drawing in various fields, including technical drafting, architecture, and graphic design.

Tablescape (in art)

In the context of art, a tablescape refers to a still life painting or arrangement that focuses on the artistic depiction of a table setting. This can include a variety of objects such as dishes, glassware, cutlery, flowers, and other decorative items. The goal is to create a visually appealing composition that captures the beauty and intricacy of the table arrangement.

Tactile Texture

Refers to the actual sensation that one experiences upon touching a surface, which can include roughness, smoothness, softness, hardness, silkiness, sliminess, stickiness, among others. Three-dimensional art forms, like sculptures and architectural features, possess tactile qualities because they can be physically touched and experienced.

Tempera

Also called “egg tempera,” is a method of painting using pigments (color) bound in a water-soluble emulsion, such as water and egg yolk (plus sometimes glue or milk), or an oil-in-water emulsion, such as oil and a whole egg. It is traditionally applied to rigid supports like wood panel or fresco, and the paint dries quickly to a hard film. This technique was the primary method of applying paint to panels in Italian art until after 1500, when the invention of oil painting superseded it. Tempera paintings are very long-lasting, and their colors do not deteriorate over time.

Tertiary Colors

(Also called intermediate colors.) 
Red-purple, red-orange, blue-green, blue-violet, yellow-green, and yellow-orange; hues commonly used in painting. There are six tertiary (third in order or level) colors, and they are the result of mixing equal parts of a primary color with a secondary color. The proper way to refer to tertiary colors is by listing the primary color first and then the secondary color.

Tertiary colors are called by their two-word name:

• • Red + violet (purple) = red-violet (red-purple)
  • Red + orange = red-orange
  • Blue + green = blue-green
  • Blue + violet (purple) = blue-violet (blue-purple)
  • Yellow + orange = yellow-orange
  • Yellow + green = yellow-green

Tetraptych

(Pronounced te-‘traptik. From the Greek words “tetra” meaning “four,” and “ptychē” meaning “fold” or “layer.” Also called Quadriptych.)
An artwork, usually a painting or carving, composed of four sections or panels, Tetraptych are commonly used for altarpieces in churches and cathedrals. They allow artists to explore themes, narratives, or variations across multiple surfaces. These panels can be attached together using a hinge or displayed side by side. Not to be confused with the term “triptych” which consists of only three panels. See also Polyptych.

Texture

Refers to the way a surface feels or is perceived to feel. It plays a crucial role in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional designs, characterized by its visual and physical properties. Texture is perceptible through touch (tactile) and sight (visual), and it plays an essential role in creating intrigue, contrast, and mood in art. Texture adds depth, complexity, and visual interest, to an image, making it seem more real. When used with other design elements, texture can convey a wide range of messages and evoke various emotions. Also see “tactile texture” and “visual texture.”

Three-Dimensional Art

(Also called “3D art.”)
A form of visual art that occupies physical space and can be viewed and interacted with from all sides, incorporating the dimensions of height, width, and depth. Three-dimensional objects include sculpture, architecture, installation art and many decorative art forms.

Three-Dimensional (3D) Space

A sensation of space that seems to have thickness, width, height, and depth. This perception is created by visual signals that create the illusion of three-dimensional shapes and areas. These 3D signals are common in nature but often go unnoticed. However, when skilled artists use these cues, they can create the illusion of three-dimensionality on a flat canvas surface.

The techniques used to create the illusion of three-dimensional space are:

• • Overlapping objects
  • Changing the size and placement of related objects
  • Linear perspective
  • Relative hue and value
  • Atmospheric perspective

Three-Point Perspective

A drawing or painting technique that is a little trickier than one- and two-point perspectives because this type involves three vanishing points. It includes two vanishing points somewhere on the horizon line and also a vanishing point either above or below the horizon that all vertical lines lead to. Three-point perspective is ideal for rendering objects, such as buildings and cityscapes when seen from an aerial or ground view.

Three-Quarter View

A perspective used in art where the subject’s head or figure is turned slightly, so it is positioned between a full front view and a profile view. This angle allows you to see more depth and shape of the face or figure compared to a straight-on view. It’s often used in portraiture to create a more dynamic and engaging composition.

Thumbnail Sketch

A small, quick drawing or outline used to plan out a larger piece of artwork or design. It’s a way to capture the basic composition, layout, and key elements without getting bogged down in details. Artists often use thumbnail sketches to experiment with different conceptual ideas and compositions before committing to a final design.

TIFF

Acronym for Tagged Image File Format, a standard graphic image file format usually generated by scanners. Developed by Aldus and Microsoft.

Tint

AA tint is created by adding white to a color, making it lighter. This process results in softer, often pastel versions of the original color. For example, adding white to red produces pink, which is a tint of red. Tints are an essential part of color theory, allowing artists to create varied and nuanced color palettes.

Titanium

An oxide used as a white pigment of great permanence and covering power. Usually extended with other whites to improve its brushing and drying properties.

Tole

The folk art of decorative painting on tin and wooden utensils, objects, and furniture. Typical metal objects include utensils, coffee pots, and similar household items. Wooden objects include tables, chairs, and chests, including hope chests, toy boxes, and jewelry boxes.

Tone

A term that describes the quality of color. It relates to the perception of a color as warm or cool, bright or subdued, light or dark, and pure or muted. Additionally, it denotes the relative lightness or darkness of a color, its shade, or the degree to which a color appears light or dark.

Townscape

An artistic representation that captures the physical aspects of a town or urban area. It’s akin to a cityscape but typically implies a smaller scale, reflecting the difference in urban size and density between cities and towns. Just as a landscape portrays the natural environment, a townscape focuses on the built environment—the streets, buildings, and everyday scenes that define a town. Also see “Cityscape.”

Triadic (Triad) Colors

A triadic color scheme consists of three colors that are evenly spaced around the color wheel, creating an equilateral triangle. Thus, every fourth color on the color wheel will make up part of a triad.

Examples of triadic color schemes could be:

• • Red, Yellow, and Blue (primary colors)
  • Orange, Green, and Violet (secondary colors)
  • Yellow-Orange, Blue-Green, and Red-Violet (tertiary colors)
  • Yellow-Green, Blue-Violet, and Red-Orange (tertiary colors)

Tribal Art

An artform or artifact created by indigenous people that embraces the traditional art of tribal societies in the Americas, Africa, India, the South Pacific, and Australasia. The most common examples of tribal art are masks, paintings, and carved sculptures, many of which are spiritual or religious.

Triptych

(Pronounced trip-tik. From the Greek words “tri” meaning “three,” and “ptychē” meaning “fold” or “layer.”)
Artwork that is divided into three painted panels or three relief-carved sections hinged together or displayed side-by-side. The imagery in the three panels may flow together to form a single unified scene, or they may each function as a separate painting yet be related to create a strong sense of visual unity and cohesion.

The central panel typically takes center stage—it’s the protagonist. Flanking the central panel are two smaller related panels (often called “wings”). These wings can fold inward, covering the central panel, or they can be displayed open, revealing the full composition. See also Polyptych.

Trompe L’oeil

French for “fool the eye.” A two-dimensional representation that is so naturalistic that it looks actual or real (three-dimensional.) This form of painting was first used by the Romans thousands of years ago in frescoes and murals.

Two-Dimensional Art

(Also called “2D art.”)
Refers to any form of artistic expression that occurs on a flat surface, such as canvas, paper, walls, or panels. Two-dimensional art is flat, consisting solely of width and height without any depth.

Two-Dimensional (2D) Space

A measurable distance on a flat surface such as a canvas or paper. 2D space shows height and width but lacks any illusion of thickness or depth. It can consist of straight or curved lines or both.

In the example, the two-dimensional image appears flat because all the objects and forms lie on the same plane. It has no feeling of depth.

Two-Point Perspective

A drawing technique that involves positioning two vanishing points along the horizon line. This perspective places the object where the viewer can look at it from an angle and see two sides at once. Two-point perspective is often used to render geometric shapes such as boxes, cubes, and buildings with a sense of depth and volume. When looking at the object from the corner, one side recedes towards one vanishing point, while the other recedes toward the opposite vanishing point. Each set of parallel lines has its own vanishing point.

Typography

The study and process of typefaces; how to select, size, arrange, and use them in general. In modern terms, typography includes computer display and output. Historically, typography entailed arranging metal types with raised characters, which would be inked and then pressed onto paper to leave an imprint.

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Contributing to The Art Dictionary

The art terms terminology 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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UKIYO-E     |     UTILITARIAN ART

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

Ukiyo-e

(Pronounced “oo-kee-yo-eh.”)
Refers to a style of painting and woodblock printing that originated in Japan during the 17th to 19th centuries. These prints were like today’s posters or magazines, widely accessible and affordable. The term “Ukiyo-e” translates to “pictures of the floating world,” capturing the transient and vibrant aspects of life in Edo (modern Tokyo) during the Edo period. It depicted scenes from the licensed pleasure quarter, famous courtesans, kabuki actors, and everyday life.

Ultramarine Blue

A deep blue to purple-blue pigment initially made from ground lapis lazuli. The name comes from the Latin ultramarinus, which translates “beyond the sea.” During the 14th and 15th centuries, ultramarine was the finest and most expensive blue used by Renaissance painters.

Ultraviolet (UV) Light

A type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays. It’s not visible to the human eye, but it can cause certain materials to fluoresce or emit visible light.

In visual art, UV light is used in several ways:

• • Authentication and Examination: UV light can reveal hidden details in artworks, such as underdrawings, previous restorations, and alterations. It helps art historians and conservators understand the history and authenticity of a piece.
  • Fluorescence: Some pigments and materials used in art fluoresce under UV light, making it easier to detect certain elements or verify the materials used.
  • Conservation: UV light can help conservators identify areas of degradation or damage in artworks, guiding them in restoration efforts.

It’s a powerful tool for uncovering secrets and ensuring the preservation of art.

Umber

A natural pigment of brown or reddish-brown color used in painting. In its natural form, it is called raw umber, but when it is heated, the color becomes more intense and is called burnt umber. Umber is not one precise color but a range of different earth colors. The name comes from the Italian terra d’ombra (or “earth of Umbria”), named after a mountainous region in central Italy where the pigment was originally extracted.

Underdrawing

A term denoting a preliminary sketch or drawing executed on a painting surface before the application of paint. It serves as a guide for the artist, helping establish the composition, proportions, and overall structure of the piece.

Underglaze (in ceramics)

A technique where colored decoration is applied to pottery before it’s glazed. The designs are painted onto the raw or bisque-fired clay and then covered with a clear glaze, which protects the decoration and gives it a glossy finish. This method keeps the colors vibrant and durable.

Underground Art

A term used to describe a subculture of art that operates outside conventional norms in the art world, like graffiti, street art, or visionary art. Any form of art that mainly occurs on public property.

Underpainting

Refers to the initial layer of paint applied to a canvas or surface before adding subsequent layers. It serves as a foundation for the final painting, establishing the overall composition, tonal values, and color scheme.

Undertone

A subdued or muted tone of color, specifically a color seen through and modifying another color.

Unifying Principle (in art)

Refers to an overarching concept or element that brings together all the different parts of an artwork, giving it cohesion and harmony. This could be a recurring motif, a color palette, a theme, or a structural technique that makes all elements of the piece feel interconnected. Think of it as the glue that holds the composition together, creating a sense of completeness.

Unity

The hallmark of a successful design, where all elements work harmoniously to create a satisfying sense of belonging and relationship, ensuring that all aspects complement each other rather than competing for attention.

Uppercase (in typography)

The uppercase or capital letters in a typeface. In the history of typography, the term ‘uppercase’ typically refers to capital letters, deriving its name from the traditional location where typesetters would store these letters.

Urban Art

(Often synonymous with Street Art.)
Creative works produced in public spaces, particularly in urban environments. This genre includes a wide range of styles and mediums, such as graffiti, murals, stencil art, wheat-pasting, and installations. Urban Art is not confined to traditional galleries and often addresses social and political themes, adding vibrant and dynamic expression to city landscapes.

Urban Landscape

Refers to an artistic representation of the physical aspects of a city or urban area. It captures the essence, character, and atmosphere of urban environments, often showcasing city skylines, streets, buildings, and other architectural elements.

Urban Realism

(Also called Social Realism.)
An artistic and literary movement that emerged during the early 20th century. It shifted away from idealized depictions of city life and instead focused on portraying the raw, unvarnished realities of urban existence. Urban realism captured the essence of city life by portraying scenes from everyday existence—often those of ordinary people going about their business in urban settings. Artists sought to depict the grit, struggles, and resilience of city dwellers. Unlike romanticized views of cities, urban realism emphasized authenticity and social commentary.

Urban Sketching

The practice of drawing on location in urban environments, capturing life on the streets in quick sketches. Urban sketchers use pencils, pens, watercolors, or any portable medium to create quick, expressive drawings of cityscapes, buildings, people, and everyday street scenes. It’s a way to document the world in real time, often with a focus on the spontaneous and the imperfect.

Utilitarian Art

(Also known as Functional Art.)
Art objects that serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. Unlike traditional fine art, which is often collected, displayed, or stored carefully, utilitarian art is meant to be used and enjoyed in everyday life.

Utilitarian art bridges the gap between artistic expression and practical functionality. It encompasses a wide range of objects, from furniture and lighting to tableware and textiles. These pieces are designed not only to be visually appealing but also to fulfill specific needs. They blend form and function seamlessly.

Examples of Functional Art:

• • Furniture: Chairs, tables, cabinets, and other pieces that blend design with practical use.
  • Lighting: Lamps, chandeliers, and sconces that illuminate spaces while adding visual interest.
  • Tableware: Plates, bowls, cups, and utensils that enhance dining experiences.
  • Textiles: Rugs, blankets, and textiles that combine artistic patterns with functionality.
  • Books and Bookbinding: Exquisitely crafted book covers and bindings that protect and beautify texts.

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This art definitions and terminology 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 idiolect online. Simply click or tap the thumbnail link of any Teresa Bernard oil painting to view additional details.

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VALUE     |     VOLUME

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

Value

The degree of lightness or darkness of any given color. Value is defined by the color’s proximity to white. For instance, lighter colors such as yellow will have lighter values than darker colors like navy blue. Adding white or black to a hue changes its value.

A good way to see the difference in color values is to look at the greyscale below. White is the lightest value, while black is the darkest. Middle gray is the value halfway between these two extremes.

Adding white to a color creates a “tint” making its value lighter. When you add black to a color, its value darkens, resulting in a “shade” of that color.

Value Contrast (in art)

Refers to the difference between light and dark. It is based on the relative lightness or darkness of a color, regardless of hue. It plays a crucial role in creating depth, three-dimensionality, and visual interest. Value contrast can be used to make an object appear closer or further away, as well as to convey drama or movement.

Value Relativity (in art)

Refers to the juxtaposition of different values (lightness or darkness) next to each other within an artwork. Essentially, it’s the deliberate arrangement of contrasting values to create visual impact and enhance the perception of form, depth, and space.

Value relativity isn’t just about individual shades; it’s about how those shades interact with one another. By skillfully orchestrating these interactions, artists breathe life into their compositions, inviting viewers to explore the interplay of light and form.

Value Scale

In the art world, a value scale is an essential tool for artists. It assists in organizing and comprehending tonal values by representing them on a grayscale. For information on how to create a value scale, click the link.

Vanishing Point

(Also known as “a point of convergence.”)
In perspective, the point on the horizon line where all parallel lines appear to recede and converge; it’s the point where visibility ends.

The vanishing point is a key element in creating the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality in drawings, paintings, and photographs. Essentially, it’s what allows artists to make their two-dimensional works look three-dimensional.

Vanitas Still Life

(A Latin term meaning “vanity.”)
A style of still life painting made popular in the Netherlands during the 16th and 17th centuries.  Compositions include objects or symbols of mortality to remind people that life is fleeting, and material things and worldly pleasures are temporary. A typical vanitas still life is characterized by and may contain symbolic images like skulls, extinguished candles, rotting fruit, bubbles, smoke, watches, hourglasses, musical instruments, wine, and books.

Variety (in art)

Refers to the use of different elements, techniques, and design to create visual interest and intrigue. It prevents an artwork from becoming monotonous and boring and is essential for maintaining a rich visual experience. The principle of variety in art involves the use of different forms, textures, colors, and other elements to create interest and contrast. By incorporating a variety of shapes, textures, colors, and other elements, art becomes more dynamic and eye-catching, attracting viewers and enhancing the overall quality of the artwork.

Varnish

A transparent hard, protective coating or applied to paintings to seal and protect the surface, creating a barrier against moisture, dust, and pollutants. Varnish also acts to intensify the appearance of the colors on the painting surface making them look more saturated. For more information on this topic see blog article “The Importance of Varnishing Oil Paintings.”

Vector Graphic

A graphic made up of mathematically defined curves and line segments called vectors. Vector graphics are editable through the manipulation of their lines and segments, allowing for the resizing and repositioning of the entire image. They can be scaled up or down without any degradation in resolution, maintaining clarity at any size.

Veduta

(Italian for “view”; pl: vedute.)
Refers to a highly detailed, typically large-scale painting, drawing, or etching that portrays a cityscape, township, or other urban scene. These pieces of art offer accurate depictions of urban landscapes, skillfully capturing streets, buildings, and other details, as well as the overall ambiance of a location. See also “Urban Landscape.”

Vedutisti

Refers to a specific group of artists who specialized in creating “vedute”—highly detailed and often large-scale paintings or prints of cityscapes and other vistas. See “veduta.”

Vegetable Still Life

A type of still life that focuses on the beauty and variety of vegetables, often highlighting their textures, colors, and forms. Vegetable still lifes can evoke a sense of simplicity and natural beauty, often emphasizing the freshness and organic qualities of the produce. This style has been popular among artists who enjoy capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors of vegetables.

Vermilion

A scarlet red pigment of variable color that is vivid red but sometimes with an orange tinge. Initially, the vermilion pigment was made from a highly toxic mineral called cinnabar, which contains mercury. However, a synthetic pigment called cadmium red was developed to replace vermilion because of the toxicity of mercury.

Vertical Balance

Refers to a specific type of balance where the visual weight within an artwork is evenly distributed along a vertical axis. Imagine slicing an artwork vertically down the middle: the elements on one side should mirror or balance out the elements on the other side.

Victorian Classicism

Refers to a specific artistic style prevalent during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837–1901) in the United Kingdom. Artists following Victorian Classicism adhered to strict academic rules and compositional guidelines. They looked to the British and European Art Academies for inspiration. Their color choices were restrained, favoring a more subdued range of hues. Victorian Classicism blended tradition, moral purpose, and visual aesthetics. It captured an era of societal shifts, technological advancements, and artistic exploration.

Video Art

A genre of art involving moving imagery and audio-visual technology to produce videotapes for viewing on a television screen. This form of art gained rapid popularity in the ’60s and ’70s with the widespread availability of inexpensive videotape recorders.

Viewfinder

A tool used to look through to compose an image. This tool helps select the most interesting composition to be found in a larger image by cropping out unwanted perimeters. In photography, a viewfinder is what the photographer looks through to compose, and in many cases to focus, the picture (see illustration). For more information, see the article titled Making and Using a Viewfinder to Compose Better Paintings.

Vignette

In the realm of art and design, a vignette refers to a unique framing form applied to an image or painting where the borders are undefined and seem to fade away gradually until it blends into the background. The beauty of a vignette lies in its ability to guide the viewer’s eye, emphasize the central content, and incorporate negative spaces (such as corners) into the overall design.

Viking Art

(Also called Norse art.)
An art form that flourished during the Viking Age (8th to 11th centuries CE) and was created by Scandinavian Norsemen. Viking art, which consists primarily of objects, shares design characteristics with Celtic, Germanic, Romanesque, and Eastern European traditions. Current knowledge of Viking art is primarily based on archaeological discoveries such as jewelry, weapons, and runestones.

Violet

A secondary color formed by mixing the primary colors red and blue. See “Secondary Colors.” The complement or opposite of the color yellow. The color of violet is named for the violet flower from which the color is derived.

Viridian

A darker blue-green pigment composed of more green than blue falling between teal and green on the color wheel. Viridian takes its name from the Latin Viridis, meaning “green.”

Visionary Art

Art that transcends what lies beyond the boundary of the physical and scientific world to portray a broader vision of awareness, including themes of spiritual, mystical, or inner awareness as seen or experienced in the images of dreams or trances.

Visual Art

A form of artwork, such as graphic design, painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, ceramics, crafts, or sculpture, created primarily for visual perception and exists in permanent form.

Visual Artist

In the realm of art and design, a visual artist is a creative professional who expresses concepts and emotions through various forms of visual art. These forms include painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and graphic design. Visual artists may work in fields such as contemporary art, illustration, advertising, or multimedia. Their primary goal is to create unique and original works that reflect their artistic vision while effectively communicating messages to their audience.

Visual Communication

The communication of ideas through the graphical display of information. Primarily associated with two-dimensional images, it includes alphanumeric, art, signs, and electronic resources. Recent research in the field has focused on web design and graphically oriented usability.

Visual Economy (in art)

(Also called Simplicity.)
The removal of all non-essential or unimportant elements and details that do not contribute to the essence of the overall composition. Its purpose is to allow what is most important to be the main focal point. The concept of simplicity is that a good composition is the most simple or straightforward solution to the design problem.

Visual Texture

Refers to the perceived smoothness and flatness of surfaces in photographs and paintings. Artists create the illusion of texture by using elements like line, shading, and color to create patterns. These textures are created by repeating lines, dots, or shapes, and can be varied in size, density, and orientation to achieve desired effects. Despite how rough objects may seem to appear in a picture, the image’s surface is always going to be smooth and flat to the touch.

Visual Weight

An important concept in the realm of art and design, visual weight refers to the amount of attention a specific element or area in a composition attracts to itself. Contrast, color, size, and shape all have an effect on visual weight because it affects the balance and harmony of an image making some elements may appear heavier or lighter than others. Thus, visual weight is essential for achieving balance, harmony, and visual hierarchy in artistic works.

Visualization Design

A process that aims to make information more understandable and visually appealing by converting complex ideas into simpler representations. Visualization design bridges the gap between quantitative and qualitative data through visual means, transforming data into compelling visuals like charts and diagrams.

This process involves carefully selecting images, typography, spacing, layout, and color to improve the design’s aesthetic appeal and usefulness. Key aspects of visualization design include charts, graphs, histograms, maps, plots, timelines, tables, word clouds, diagrams, and matrices. Effective data visualization improves communication and decision-making, going beyond aesthetics to optimize user experience and conversion.

Volume

In the context of three-dimensional geometry, volume refers to the amount of space occupied by an object. When we discuss volume, we’re essentially measuring the capacity of that object—the three-dimensional “room” it fills.

You May Also Like

This art terms wordlist 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 thesaurus online. Simply click or tap the thumbnail link of any Teresa Bernard oil painting to view additional details.

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Contributing to The Art Dictionary

The art terms wordlist 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!

Thanks for reading this!

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WALL ART     |     WYSIWYG

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

Wall Art

Any artistic work specifically designed to be displayed on walls. This can include:

• • Paintings: Traditional artworks on canvas or other materials.
  • Murals: Large-scale paintings or artworks directly on walls.
  • Posters: Printed images or graphics.
  • Decals: Decorative stickers or adhesive designs.
  • Sculptural Pieces: 3D art that is mounted on walls.

It’s about transforming a wall into a canvas to enhance the aesthetic of a space, adding character, color, and creativity to a room.

War Artist

Artistic individuals who document first-hand experiences of war through illustrative or depictive records, often commissioned by governments, publications, or driven by personal motivation. They explore the visual and sensory dimensions of war, often absent in written histories. Their artwork reflects the experiences of those who endured it, collecting and distilling their experiences, and influencing how subsequent generations view military conflicts.

Warm Color

Colors whose relative visual temperature makes them seem warm. Warm colors include red-violet, red, red-orange, orange, yellow-orange, and yellow.

The characteristics of warm colors include:

• • are made with red, orange, or yellow, and combinations of them.
  • tend to feel warm, reminding us of heat and sunshine.
  • tend to advance into the foreground, i.e., come toward the viewer.
  • may feel more energetic, attention-grabbing, and aggressive.

Wash (in art)

A visual arts technique that results in a semi-transparent layer of color. A wash results from diluted ink or watercolor paint. It’s often combined with drawing and is called “pen and wash,” “wash drawing,” or “ink and wash.” Artists use a wet brush loaded with solvent (water or turpentine) and a small amount of paint or ink. The brush glides over wet or dry paper or canvas, creating a smooth, uniform area. Washes add depth, tonal variation, and subtlety. They are used in landscapes, portraits, and abstract compositions.

Water-soluble Oil Paint

(Also called water-mixable, water-miscible, or Solvent-free Oils.)
A type of oil paint that can be thinned and cleaned up with water. Unlike traditional oil paints, which require solvents like turpentine, water-soluble oils retain the rich texture and vibrant colors of oils while being more accessible and less toxic. They’re great for artists with allergies, beginners, or those working in home studios. Plus, they dry faster than traditional oils, making them a versatile choice for painters.

Watercolor

A transparent or opaque water-based painting compound suspended in a natural gum arabic binder. Watercolor is a moist paint that comes in a tube, thinned using water, and mixed on a dish or palette. Use them on paper and other absorbent surfaces that have been primed to accept water-based paint. Use soap and water for easy cleanup. Also refers to a painting produced with watercolors.

Watermark (in paper)

A distinctive design, identifying image, or pattern that appears as varying shades of lightness or darkness when viewed against transmitted light (or reflected light on a dark background). It results from thickness or density variations in the paper during manufacturing. They can include a paper mill’s trademark or brand name, subtly embedded in the sheet.

Waterscape

Any drawing or painting that depicts water bodies or water, whether tranquil or dynamic. It captures the beauty and essence of rivers, seas, lakes, or other aquatic landscapes. A waterscape can take various forms:

• • Seascapes: These focus on the ocean or major bodies of saltwater. Seascapes often depict the interplay of water, sky, and distant horizons.
  • Lakescapes: These center around freshwater lakes, capturing reflections, shorelines, and the surrounding landscape.
  • Riverscapes: These celebrate rivers—their flow, banks, bridges, and the life they sustain.
  • Ponds and Streams: Smaller bodies of water, such as ponds and babbling streams, also inspire waterscape art.

Wedging

The process of preparing clay for use on the potter’s wheel or other hand-building techniques by kneading and manipulating it to remove air pockets and smooth out the clays texture. Wedging makes the clay more resistant to shrinking and cracking as it cures.

Wet-on-wet

A painting technique that is well-known as being the primary method of painting used by Bob Ross. Since lighter colors will usually mix with darker colors if laid over the top of them while wet, the technique relies on painting from light colors up. This method gives the painting a soft look and allows the colors to be blended to the painter’s desire.

White

The lightest color, achromatic (having no hue), and the opposite of black. It’s the color of snow, chalk, and milk. White objects fully reflect and scatter all visible wavelengths of light.

White Space

(Also known as Negative Space.)
Refers to the empty areas around and between the elements of a composition. It’s a crucial design principle that helps create balance, organization, and readability in visual art and design. By providing breathing room for the elements, white space ensures that each part of the artwork stands out and is easy to understand.

White Spirits

Solvents used to thin oil paints, achieving the desired consistency and flow. See also “mineral spirits.”

Whiting (in art)

(Also known as chalk or calcium carbonate.)
A fine, white powder derived from natural sources, primarily limestone or chalk deposits. Its chemical composition is calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). When ground into a fine powder, it becomes an essential white pigment. Whiting is highly opaque, covering underlying layers effectively. It’s especially useful for achieving bright whites. Whiting is also a key component in traditional gesso.

Wildlife Art

Artwork that depicts the natural world and the animals that live in it, whether wild or domesticated. This genre is one of the earliest forms of art, dating back to prehistoric cave paintings. Portraits of animals, insects, or fish (whether wildlife or family pets) would fit into this genre. For more on wildlife art, click here.

Wildlife Artist

A skilled artist who creates artwork depicting animals and wildlife in their natural habitats. They aim to capture the essence of wild animals and their interactions with the landscape. Many wildlife painters focus on a specific type of animal or wilderness. They use mediums like oil paints, watercolors, and pastels to create realistic and detailed images of animals, and some specialize in sculptures of animals.

Woodblock Printing

An ancient technique for printing text, images, or patterns. It involves carving a design into a wooden block, inking the raised surface, and then pressing it onto paper or fabric. Originating in China, this method became prominent in East Asia and spread to Europe. It’s famous for producing intricate artworks like Japanese Ukiyo-e prints and religious texts. Imagine the craftsmanship required for each detail!

Woodcut

A relief printing technique in printmaking that dates back to 8th-century China. It involves printing an image from the surface of a block of wood. An image is etched into the wood using tools like chisels, gouges, and knives. The raised areas of the image are then inked and printed; while cut away or recessed areas do not receive ink and appear blank on the printed paper.

Word Art

Any art that includes words or phrases as its primary artistic component appearing in various media, including painting and sculpture, lithography and screen-printing, and applied art (T-shirts, mugs, etc.).

Worm’s-eye View

A term that describes the perspective of a scene as if viewed from below, as a worm might see it. It’s the opposite of a bird’s-eye view. This perspective can cause objects to seem towering and dominant, thereby making the observer feel small or powerless.

Wrinkle Painting

A technique used to create textured surfaces that resemble wrinkles. This is typically achieved by applying paint or another medium and then manipulating it while it’s wet to form irregular patterns and folds. Once dried, the result is a uniquely textured finish that adds depth and dimension to the artwork. It’s often used for abstract and modern pieces, giving them a distinct, tactile quality.

WYSIWYG

(Pronounced “wizzy-wig.”)
An acronym for “What You See Is What You Get.” It refers to a computing system in which the content shown during editing closely resembles the final output, often a printed document.  For example, in word-processing or desktop-publishing software, the on-screen display reflects how the printed document will look, eliminating the need for users to master complex formatting codes.

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X-RADIOGRAPHY     |     XYLOGRAPHY

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

X-Radiography

A medical diagnostic tool used extensively by conservators to determine how artists applied different layers of paint to create an image. The X-rays penetrate through multiple layers of paint to image the atomic weight or density of the various present materials. It can readily identify if repairs have been conducted on tears in the canvas, if there are holes in the panel support, and other similar issues. This information is extremely valuable to conservators, as it helps determine the best procedures to use in preserving the image. It can also assist art historians in the interpretation of the artwork and more specific dating.

Xanthic

An adjective that describes a color with a yellow tint or hue. Xanthic is a more specific and formal term often used in technical or scientific contexts. Not to be confused with the more common adjective “yellowish.” Whereas xanthic refers to a bright and vibrant yellow, yellowish is a more everyday term that suggests a paler or more muted yellow that lacks the intensity associated with xanthic. Although both terms describe yellows, their connotations and contexts do differ.

Xerography

(Also called photocopying or xerocopy, a lesser-used term.)
A dry photocopying technique, originally called “electrophotography” and renamed xerography. It combines electrostatic printing with photography. The process uses no liquid chemicals and relies on a photoconductive surface that changes electrical resistance when exposed to light. Xerography is widely used in photocopy machines, laser printers, and digital presses.

Xylography

An ancient wood engraving technique, originated in China during the 1st century and is considered the oldest known method of engraving. It encompasses woodblock printing and the reproduction of wood grain patterns, commonly utilized in interior design.

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YADDO COLONY     |     YIELDING LINES

Quick links to more art terms and definitions are located at the end of the list.

Yaddo Colony

An artists’ community and retreat located in Saratoga Springs, New York. Established in 1900, it provides residencies for writers, composers, visual artists, and other creative individuals. Artists from various disciplines come to Yaddo to focus on their work, collaborate, and find inspiration.

 Yale School of Art

The first professional fine arts school in the United States, founded in 1869. As part of Yale University, it grants Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees to students who complete intensive two-year programs in disciplines such as Graphic Design, Painting/Printmaking, Photography, and Sculpture. Additionally, the school offers undergraduate-level art courses to Yale College students.

Yard Art

Refers to decorative items and artistic pieces designed to be placed in outdoor spaces like gardens, yards, and patios. This can include sculptures and statues, decorative planters and pots, ornamental garden stakes, metal or wooden art pieces, fountains and birdbaths, and mosaic steppingstones. It’s all about adding personality and creativity to your outdoor environment.

Yardage Printing

Refers to the process of printing patterns or designs onto fabric in large quantities. It’s commonly used in textile design and fashion, where repeating motifs are applied to create fabric for clothing, upholstery, or home decor.

Yarn Bombing

(Also known as guerrilla knitting or yarn graffiti.)
A form of street art where colorful yarn or knitted pieces are wrapped around objects in public spaces. It adds a whimsical touch to urban environments and celebrates creativity.

Yarn Graffiti

(Also known as yarn bombing or guerrilla knitting.)
A delightful form of street art where colorful knitted or crocheted yarn is used to cover objects or structures in public spaces. Instead of traditional graffiti materials like paint, yarn bombers transform the urban landscape with soft, cozy fibers. It’s like adding warmth and whimsy to everyday surroundings!

Yasti

In Indian art and architecture, a “yasti” refers to a decorative pillar or column. Yasti often features intricate carvings and are found in temples, palaces, and other sacred or ceremonial structures.

YAM (Youth Art Month)

An acronym that stands for “Youth Art Month.” YAM celebrates the creativity and artistic expression of young artists in schools and communities. YAM encourages young people to explore their artistic talents, express themselves, and appreciate the value of visual arts education.

YBA (Young British Artists)

A loosely affiliated group of British artists who gained prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s. They were known for their provocative, often controversial works and their willingness to challenge traditional artistic norms. YBAs disrupted the art scene with their unconventional approaches, exploring themes like consumerism, identity, and mortality. Their impact on contemporary art remains significant.

Yellow

The color between orange and green on the color wheel. Considered to be the most visible color on the spectrum and the most attention-getting. One of the four primary colors used in printing ink (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). One of the three primary colors used in art (red, yellow, and blue). The complement or opposite of the color violet. In painting, yellow is used to create a multitude of colors when mixed with other hues.

Yellow Ocher

(Also spelled yellow “ochre.”)
A natural earth pigment with a yellow or yellow-brown color. It has been used for centuries in painting, both as a pigment and as a colorant for various materials. Artists mix yellow ocher with other pigments to create warm yellows, browns, and earth tones. It’s a versatile color that appears in landscapes, still lifes, and figurative art.

Yellowing

A discoloration that can occur over time in oil paintings due to excessive use of linseed oil medium; applying any of the varnishes that are prone to yellow with age; or most often, an accumulation of dirt embedded into the varnish. Also referred to as “after-yellowing.”

Yielding Lines

Refers to lines in art that appear to bend, flow, or flex, suggesting movement and fluidity. They create a sense of motion and dynamism, often leading the viewer’s eye through the composition in a gentle, natural way.

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Z-PATTERN LAYOUT     |     ZOOMORPHIC

Quick links to more art terms and definitions 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 pattern style used in sculpture, painting, stained glass, and manuscript illumination. This style often appeared in Gothic art, particularly during the Early Gothic period.

Zenga

Refers to the art and calligraphy created by Japanese Zen monks. It emerged during the Edo period (1615–1868) and continues to resonate through the modern era. Zenga is typically executed in ink, emphasizing simplicity and immediacy. The brushwork is bold, spontaneous, and unpretentious. Often, both calligraphy and image will be in the same piece of art.

Zenithal Lighting

A technique in painting and photography where light appears to come from directly above, highlighting the highest points on a subject.

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. Zentangle encourages creativity within structured boundaries.

Zero Group

An avant-garde art movement founded in the late 1950s in Germany. Its members sought to break away from traditional artistic conventions and explore new materials, light, and spatial concepts. Zero artists experimented with monochromatic surfaces, kinetic art, and immersive installations, aiming to create a sense of purity and emptiness.

Zero-Point Perspective

(Also referred to as “atmospheric perspective” or “aerial 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.

Zigzag

A pattern or line that moves back and forth in sharp, alternating directions that mimic the shape of the letter ‘Z’. It’s often used in art and design to create dynamic, eye-catching visuals and can evoke a sense of movement or energy.

Zinc White

A cool, semi-transparent white pigment composed of zinc oxide. It has been used in artist paints since the 18th century. Zinc White offers a very clean, cool white compared to other white pigments.

Zincography

A printing technique that involves using zinc plates as the printing surface. It falls under the broader category of lithography, which relies on the principle that oil and water do not mix. While digital printing technologies have largely replaced zincography for commercial purposes, it still thrives in artistic and small-scale projects.

Zinnober Green

Another name for chrome green. It’s a pigment that has been used historically, although it’s not commonly found in contemporary artists’ paints. Zinnober Green typically results from a mixture of chrome yellow (lead chromate) and Prussian blue. This combination creates a vibrant green hue. During the 19th century, Zinnober Green found its place primarily in house paints and industrial products. Its use in fine art was less common due to concerns about its stability and toxicity.

Zoomorphic

(From the Greek words: “zôion” (meaning “animal”) and “-morphic” (an adjective combining form indicating “having (such) a form”).
Refers to having the form of an animal or being related to a deity conceived of in animal form or with animal attributes. Artists often incorporate zoomorphic elements into their work, whether through sculptures, paintings, or decorative motifs. Zoomorphic designs can be found in pottery, jewelry, and architectural ornamentation.

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