Vocabulary

Focal point: a compositional tool that accentuates a particular area of object to bring emphasis to the piece and to prompt closer scrutiny of the work.

3 ways to achieve a focal point:

            1. Contrast

            2. Isolation

            3. Placement

3 types of rhythm:

1.     Rhythm through shapes and repetition

2.     Alternating rhythm

3.     Progressive rhythm

Piet Mondrian.
Broadway Boogie Woogie, 1942-1943.
Oil on canvas, 50 x 50 in.
The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

How can rhythm help to unify a piece of art?

The use of rhythm can help to unify a piece of art in many different ways. It can:

·      Create sequential patterns

·      Allow similar elements to reappear in a regular order

·      Form an emotional connection with the viewer

·      Describe the very basic and familiar characteristics of nature

Kinesthetic rhythm: occurs when a visual experience activates one of our other senses. For example, a piece of art may be able to evoke sight, touch, and sound all at the same time.

Line: a perceptible element of length.

• Setting a point in motion can form line. 
•  In art and design, line most often possesses length and variations in width.
• Line is the most recognizable element of art and design.
• When using line, the artist is capable of creating movement and unlimited variety.

Contour: the most common use of line in art.  It follows the edges of the form and describes its silhouette.

Gesture: created very spontaneously.  Gesture lines imply motion and record the movement of the form.  They move freely within the forms and do not stay confined to its edges.

Implied line: created through the placement and positioning of separate points so that the eye will connect them.  This generates movement across the image.

Explicit line: seen when line is purposeful and obvious in an image.  This type of line can be observed in a variety of media.

Lost and found line: the description of form that is uncovered through distinct contours combined with edges that dissolve or vanish into the ground

Caravaggio,
Salome with the Head of John the Baptist, c.1609.
Oil on canvas, 116 x 140 cm.
National Gallery, London.

Line as direction…

            Line can be used to describe directions such as horizontal, vertical, and diagonal.  Horizontal lines most often indicate calm and relaxation.  Vertical lines hint at feelings of energy and movement.  The diagonal line is usually used to suggest movement.

Psychic line: a mental connection between two elements or points.  For example, when a figure is looking or pointing in a particular direction it can lead the eye towards the intended focus.

Line as texture and pattern…

            Line can be used to describe both texture and pattern.  Texture appeals to the tactile sense.  It is the surface quality of objects.  Pattern is the repetition of certain visual elements, which help to create an anticipated sequence.