Ever found yourself nodding along in an art discussion, secretly Googling terms under the table? 😅 Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! In Part Two of my guide to essential art terms I continue to identify and explain some common art terms that will help you chat confidently about art, whether you’re at a fancy gallery opening or just enjoying a coffee with an artsy friend. In case you missed it, you can find Part One here.

Medium

Medium can mean the type of art (such as painting or sculpture) or the materials used (for example acrylic or charcoal). Each category of artwork has its own medium, and the materials can define the artwork’s texture and feel. Somewhat non-intuitively, the plural of medium is media. Are you an artist? Try exploring different mediums like acrylic, watercolour, or charcoal. Notice how each medium affects your artwork’s texture and mood and which ones you like using.

Memento Mori

A memento mori reminds us of our mortality. Often featuring skulls, hourglasses, or wilting flowers, these artworks are a nudge to appreciate life’s fleeting nature. This art form often strives to remind us that time is precious.

Modern

Modern art reflects the industrialized world’s reality, hopes, and expectations. From the early 20th century, artists began using new techniques and materials to create works that resonated with the changing times. Modern artworks often reflect the modern hustle and bustle. Perhaps you could experiment with new techniques and materials to express your view of today’s world. Think outside the box and let your art speak for the present.

Mosaic

Mosaic art involves creating images using small pieces of glass, ceramic, or stone. Traditionally used in religious buildings and seen in building works dating back to Roman times, mosaics can be hardwearing making them suitable for floors as well as ceilings and walls.

Monochrome

Monochrome art uses a single colour to create a cohesive and striking image. This style can emphasize texture and form, drawing attention to the artwork's composition without the distraction of multiple colours.

Narrative

Narrative art tells a story. Historically, it depicted religious, mythological, or historical tales that viewers were often already familiar with. Modern narrative art often requires a bit more decoding, adding layers of meaning and inviting deeper engagement with each detail adding to the story.

A monochromatic print. While monochromatic art can be in any colour, black is a common choice.

Oil Paint

Oil paint, made from pigment and oil, is known for its rich texture and vibrant colours. It dries slowly, allowing artists to make gradual changes and build layers, creating depth and realism in their work.

Old Master

Old Masters are renowned artists from Western Europe between 1400 and 1800. Their works are celebrated for their virtuosity and naturalism, often reflecting the traditions of the Italian Renaissance.

Palette

A palette refers both to the board an artist uses to mix paints and the range of colours chosen for a work. A well-chosen palette can evoke specific emotions and atmospheres in a piece of art.

Photorealism

Photorealism aims to replicate the look of a photograph with meticulous detail. This art form emerged in the 1960s, using photographic techniques to achieve stunningly realistic paintings.

Reproductive Prints

Reproductive prints are copies of original artworks which are often unlimited in number and therefore less expensive. Historically, they allowed people from all social classes and income brackets to enjoy and own pieces of art.

Still Life

Still life art features inanimate objects, like fruit, flowers, or household items, often arranged on a table. It’s like a snapshot of everyday life, capturing beauty in the mundane. Still life paintings are a great way to practice composition and detail and are often based on a photograph or actual physical display.

Street Art

Street Art or Urban Art, evolving from mid-1970s graffiti culture, uses public spaces and buildings as canvases. This art form includes stencils, murals, and installations, often conveying political or social messages and bringing art into everyday life. Works by Banksy would perhaps be the most famous pieces of street art.

Surrealism

Surrealism challenges the logical view of life, delving into the unconscious and dreams. Think of Dalí’s melting clocks – surrealism blends magic with reality, often pairing disparate things and creating works that surprise and intrigue. It’s the dreamscape of the art world.

Symbolism

Symbolism uses realistic or figurative art to express deeper meanings. A still life might seem simple, but look closer, and you’ll find a wealth of symbolic messages. It’s like a visual puzzle, with each element carrying hidden significance. It’s like writing poetry with visuals.

Tone

Tone refers to the lightness or darkness of a colour. One colour can have endless tones, adding depth and dimension to art. Tone can also mean the overall mood or feeling of the piece. It’s the emotional palette of the artwork. If you are creating an artwork, try experiment with different tones of a single colour. Notice how light and dark shades create depth and mood. Tone is a powerful tool for adding dimension to your art.

Verism

Verism is all about strict naturalism – depicting subjects with all their warts and imperfections. Dating back to the Roman Republic, verism captures the raw, unfiltered reality and celebrates authenticity. In your own artwork try embracing imperfections. Capture subjects in their raw, natural state. Verism is about authenticity, so don’t shy away from the real and unfiltered.

Watercolour

Watercolour paint, known for its translucency and delicate application, is often used for landscapes and quick studies. It allows the brightness of the paper to shine through, creating a luminous effect that’s both challenging and rewarding for artists.

Armed with these art terms, you’re ready to dive into art discussions with confidence. Whether you’re an art history buff or just looking to feel in-the-know at your next gallery visit, these terms will help you navigate the art world like a pro. Happy art chatting!

Understanding Essential Art Terms: A Beginner’s Guide (Part Two)