Glossary

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

A

Abstract

Using elements of art(as color, line, or texture) with little attempt or no attempt at creating a realistic picture.

Abstract Expressionism

The first major American avant-garde movement. It emerged in New York City in the 1940’s. The artist produced abstract paintings that expressed their state of mind and were intended to strike emotional chords in viewers.

Additive

Refers to the process of joining a series of parts together to create a sculpture.

Amitabha

Chinese for the Buddhist of the Western Paradise, Japanese name is Amida.

Analogous

Refers to closely related colors; a color scheme that combines several hues next to each other on the color wheel.

Angle

The space between two lines or planes that intersect.

Angle view

Placement of a camera at an angle to the subject rather than straight on.

Aperture

Also known as exposure and shutter. Exposure is the amount of light that falls on a light sensitive material. Aperture refers specifically to a device controlling the amount of light that enters a camera through its lens. A number system known as f-stops controls the aperture settings.

Armature

A framework used by a sculptor to support a figure being molded.

Armory Show

1913 art show in New York, which one was one of the major vehicles for disseminating information about European avant-garde artistic development. This show also provided American artists with a prime showcase for their work.

Art Deco

1920s and 1930s art movement that sought to upgrade industrial design in relation to “fine art” and to work new materials into decorative patterns that could either be machined or handcrafted. The artwork is characterized by streamlined, elongated, and symmetrical design.

Ashcan School

Originally known as The Eight, this group of artists focused on depicting the realistic, gritty, urban life of major American cities, particularly New York City.

Assemblage

A three-dimensional composition, in which a collection of objects is unified in a sculptural work.

Asymmetrical

Lacking correspondence in size, shape, and relative position of parts on opposite sides of a dividing line or median plane or about a center or axis.

Atelier

An artist’s or designer’s studio or workroom.

Atmospheric perspective

Aerial or atmospheric perspective achieved by using bluer, lighter, and duller hues for distant objects in a two-dimensional work of art.

Automatic Camera

Also known as a “Point and Shoot” camera, which takes film.

Automatism

The technique of creating a work of art without the exercise of thought or will, or any intervention on the part of the conscious mind; associated with Surrealism.

Avant-garde

Late-19th and 20th century artists who emphasized innovation and challenged established convention in the work.