| Glossary Of Art Terms
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A4 Paper Almost identical in size to the North American "letter" paper, A4 paper is part of the A-series if paper sizes dictated by the International Organization for Standardization.
A4 paper is 210 x 297 mm, or 8.27 × 11.7 inches
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| Abstract Abstract art represents a departure from literal representation, focusing instead on conveying emotions, concepts, or ideas through non-representational means. By emphasizing shapes, colors, lines, and textures, abstract art prompts viewers to engage with the artwork on a subjective level, inviting interpretation and personal reflection. Through abstraction, artists explore the interplay of form and space, experimenting with composition and technique to evoke diverse responses and stimulate the imagination. Whether through bold gestural strokes or subtle geometric arrangements, abstract art challenges viewers to look beyond the surface and discover meaning in the harmony or dissonance of its elements. |
| Abstract art An art style that avoids realistic and recognizable imagery, and instead depicts emotion through compositions of color and shape. Abstract art began to shift to the mainstream around the turn of the 20th century, as artists sought new ways to express their interpretations of the world. |
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| Abstract Expressionism Abstract Expressionism emerged as a groundbreaking art movement in the post-World War II era, characterized by its emphasis on spontaneity, emotional intensity, and subjective expression. Rejecting the conventions of traditional representation, Abstract Expressionist artists such as Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko sought to convey profound inner experiences through dynamic brushwork, gestural mark-making, and vibrant color palettes. Rooted in the belief that art should reflect the artist's psyche and existential condition, Abstract Expressionism challenged viewers to confront the raw energy and existential angst captured within each canvas, inviting them to immerse themselves in the turbulent depths of human consciousness. |
| Abstraction Abstraction in art signifies a departure from literal representation, where artists distill visual elements from the natural world into essential forms, colors, and lines. By simplifying or exaggerating recognizable subjects, abstraction invites viewers to explore the underlying essence or emotional resonance of the artwork, transcending mere depiction to evoke deeper states of consciousness or contemplation. Whether through the geometric precision of Piet Mondrian's compositions or the fluid lyricism of Wassily Kandinsky's color harmonies, abstraction enables artists to communicate complex ideas and sensations in a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries and historical contexts. |
| Abstractionism Abstractionism encompasses a diverse array of artistic styles and movements that prioritize non-representational forms, colors, and compositions over figurative representation. From the Cubist experiments of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque to the intuitive gestures of Joan Miró and the Constructivist explorations of Kazimir Malevich, abstractionism celebrates the inherent expressive potential of form and color, liberated from the constraints of mimesis or realism. By inviting viewers to engage with art on a more intuitive or visceral level, abstractionism challenges conventional modes of perception and encourages a deeper appreciation for the inherent beauty and complexity of abstract visual language. |
| Academic Art Academic art refers to a style of art that adheres to the principles and techniques taught in formal art academies or institutions, particularly during the 19th century in Europe. Rooted in classical traditions, academic art emphasizes technical skill, meticulous draftsmanship, and adherence to established conventions of composition, subject matter, and aesthetics. Academic artists often portrayed historical or mythological themes, executed with a high degree of realism and idealized beauty. While academic art was influential in shaping the standards of artistic excellence and professionalism, it also faced criticism for its conservatism and perceived lack of innovation in the face of emerging avant-garde movements. |
Acetate paper Transparent paper which may be placed in layers over the hard copy of a print or original. The acetate paper allows the designer or artist to indicate changes or instructions, such as different colors.
This type of paper is also used to create overhead projector transparencies.
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| Achromatic Achromatic refers to colors or images that lack hue, appearing as grayscale tones ranging from black to white, with varying shades of gray in between. In an achromatic composition, color is absent, and emphasis is placed on tonal contrast, light, and shadow to create depth, form, and visual interest. Achromatic artworks often evoke a sense of simplicity, clarity, and austerity, allowing viewers to focus on the interplay of light and dark values without the distraction of color symbolism or emotional connotations. |
| Acid Burn This occurs when artwork is matted and framed using materials that are not conservation quality (acid-free). Acid burn presents as a yellow or brown discoloration on the art paper. |
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Acid-resist Related to the art practice of etching, acid-resist is a protective coating which is applied to the metal surface prior to the etching process. When the plate is placed in the acid bath, the areas on which the coating have not been scratched away will remain undamaged by the acid.
Different types of acid-resist include specialized products, beeswax, and grease pencil.
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| Acrylic Gesso A mixture of calcium carbonate (chalk) and an acrylic binder and a white pigment. Coating a canvas with this substance prior to painting with acrylics will improve the longevity of the artwork. The application of the gesso helps the paints to go on more smoothly, and prevents them from soaking into the raw, unprimed canvas. |
| Acrylic Paint Acrylic paint is a fast-drying, water-based paint consisting of pigment particles suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. Widely used by artists since its development in the mid-20th century, acrylic paint offers versatility, durability, and ease of use across various painting techniques and surfaces. Unlike oil paint, acrylic paint dries quickly, allowing artists to work rapidly and apply multiple layers or glazes in a single session. Acrylic paint can be diluted with water for transparent washes or applied thickly for impasto effects, and it adheres well to canvas, paper, wood, and other surfaces, making it a popular choice for artists working in diverse styles and genres. |
| Acrylic resin A group of related thermoplastic or thermosetting plastic substances |
| Action Painting Action painting is a style of abstract expressionist painting characterized by spontaneous, gestural brushwork and the physical act of painting itself. Developed in the 1940s and 1950s, particularly associated with artists such as Jackson Pollock, action painting emphasizes the immediacy and dynamism of the creative process, with artists often working on large-scale canvases placed on the floor to enable expansive, full-body movements. By dripping, splattering, or flinging paint onto the canvas with rhythmic gestures and controlled chaos, action painters sought to capture the energy, emotion, and subconscious impulses inherent in the act of creation, transcending representational concerns in favor of raw, visceral expression. |
Additive Color Additive color relates to mixing two or more of the primary colors in the light spectrum (red, blue, and green) to get different colors (yellow, violet, light blue).
Different from substractive color, which involves light reflected off of surfaces. |
Aesthetic Aesthetic experiences are fundamental to human perception and cognition, encompassing the ways in which individuals engage with and respond to the sensory qualities, emotional resonances, and intellectual meanings inherent in art, nature, and the built environment. Rooted in subjective perception and cultural context, aesthetics embraces a broad spectrum of sensory stimuli, ranging from the visual beauty of a Renaissance masterpiece to the harmonious melodies of a symphony orchestra, the tactile pleasures of a well-crafted sculpture, or the sublime grandeur of a natural landscape.
Aesthetics also encompasses the study of aesthetic principles and theories, exploring concepts such as beauty, sublimity, taste, and style across diverse historical periods, cultural traditions, and artistic disciplines. By illuminating the complexities of aesthetic experience, aesthetics offers insights into the ways in which individuals interpret, evaluate, and derive meaning from the world of sensory phenomena, fostering a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of human creativity and expression. |
Aestheticism Aestheticism emerged as a provocative cultural movement in the late 19th century, challenging prevailing Victorian norms and values by championing the pursuit of beauty, sensual pleasure, and artistic self-expression as intrinsic to the human experience. Rejecting the moralistic didacticism and social utility espoused by mainstream Victorian culture, aestheticism celebrated art for art's sake, asserting the autonomy of aesthetic experience and the primacy of individual sensibility over moral or utilitarian concerns.
Figures such as Oscar Wilde and Algernon Charles Swinburne exemplified the ethos of aestheticism through their writings, which exalted the pursuit of beauty, refinement, and hedonistic pleasure as the highest ideals of human existence. Embracing a philosophy of "artifice over nature" and "style over substance," aestheticism advocated for the cultivation of exquisite craftsmanship, refined taste, and aesthetic refinement as the hallmarks of a truly civilized society, inspiring subsequent generations of artists, writers, and intellectuals to challenge conventional notions of artistic purpose, morality, and social responsibility. |
Aesthetics Aesthetics, as a branch of philosophy, engages in the systematic inquiry into the nature, principles, and significance of aesthetic experience, encompassing the study of beauty, taste, perception, and artistic value across diverse cultural traditions and historical contexts. Drawing upon insights from disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, and sociology, aesthetics explores questions related to the cognitive processes underlying aesthetic judgment, the psychological mechanisms of sensory perception, and the socio-cultural dynamics shaping artistic production and reception.
From Aristotle's theory of mimesis to Kant's transcendental aesthetics and Dewey's pragmatist aesthetics, philosophers have grappled with fundamental questions about the nature of aesthetic experience, the criteria of artistic excellence, and the ethical implications of aesthetic judgment. By examining the ways in which individuals engage with and interpret aesthetic phenomena, aesthetics illuminates the complex interplay of sensory perception, cultural context, and subjective interpretation that informs our understanding of beauty, art, and the human condition. |
| Against the Grain This term relates to cutting or tearing paper or other materials across the length-wise strands of its construction, instead of alongside it. In general, it is more difficult to tear against the grain than with it. |
| AI (Adobe Illustrator) Adobe Illustrator (AI) is a vector-based graphic design software widely used in laser engraving for creating and editing intricate designs, logos, and graphics. Its powerful tools and features enable users to produce high-quality vector artwork that can be easily imported into laser engraving software for precise engraving onto various materials. |
| Airbrush A kind of miniature spray paint applicator that consists of a pen-like tool attached to liquid paint. When the trigger is depressed, the airbrush sprays out a thin line of paint which is used in various types of painting and other artwork. |
Allegory An allegory is a powerful literary, visual, or symbolic device that operates on multiple levels of meaning, inviting readers or viewers to interpret the text or image through the lens of metaphor, symbolism, or narrative symbolism. Unlike literal narratives, which convey explicit meanings through direct representation, allegorical works rely on figurative language, symbolic imagery, and narrative subtext to convey deeper layers of significance, often reflecting moral, philosophical, or political themes. From John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress" to George Orwell's "Animal Farm," allegory has been a potent tool for conveying complex ideas and moral allegiances through the guise of fictional narratives and symbolic characters.
In visual art, allegorical motifs such as the "vanitas" still life or the "allegory of painting" by artists like Jan Vermeer and Artemisia Gentileschi have served as vehicles for conveying profound philosophical or religious truths through the language of symbolism and allegory. By engaging the imagination and prompting critical reflection, allegory invites audiences to decipher hidden meanings, discern underlying truths, and contemplate the deeper mysteries of human existence. |
| Allover Painting An artwork in which the entire surface is painted from corner to corner, with no one section receiving more attention or significance. Many of Jackson Pollock's Abstract Expressionism paintings can be defined as such. |
Amplify To amplify signifies the act of increasing the intensity, magnitude, or volume of something, whether it be sound, signal, information, or effect, thereby enhancing its perceptibility, impact, or significance. In various domains, amplification involves augmenting or enlarging specific elements or aspects to make them more pronounced, discernible, or influential, whether in the realm of technological innovation, artistic expression, or interpersonal communication.
In audio engineering, amplification involves boosting electrical signals to increase the amplitude of sound waves, thereby enhancing the fidelity and projection of auditory stimuli. In rhetorical discourse, amplification entails elaborating upon key arguments or themes to intensify their rhetorical force and persuasive appeal, thereby captivating audience attention and reinforcing cognitive comprehension. By amplifying certain dimensions of human experience, creative expression, or cultural discourse, individuals can magnify the impact, resonance, and significance of their actions, ideas, or contributions, thereby enriching the fabric of human existence and expanding the horizons of collective understanding and appreciation. |
| Analogous Colors Analogous colors are hues that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel and share similar characteristics. Typically, they consist of three colors that are next to each other, such as red, orange, and yellow, or blue, green, and yellow-green. Analogous color schemes are often used in art and design to create harmonious compositions, as the colors blend seamlessly and evoke a sense of unity and cohesion. Artists and designers employ analogous colors to convey specific moods or atmospheres, utilizing subtle variations in hue, saturation, and value to achieve dynamic visual effects and convey nuanced emotional expressions. |
| Anamorphosis Anamorphosis is a technique used in art and optics to distort or transform an image in such a way that it appears normal only when viewed from a particular vantage point or through a specific optical device. The term originates from the Greek words "ana" (meaning "back" or "again") and "morphe" (meaning "form" or "shape"). Anamorphic images often appear distorted or elongated when viewed from certain angles but resolve into recognizable shapes or perspectives when viewed from a designated viewpoint or reflected in a curved mirror. Artists throughout history have employed anamorphosis to create illusions of depth, perspective, and spatial distortion, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions and explore the boundaries between reality and illusion. |
| Animation Animation is a dynamic art form that involves the creation of moving images, characters, and narratives through a series of sequential drawings, frames, or digital renderings. Drawing upon principles of movement, timing, and storytelling, animators bring static images to life through the illusion of motion, capturing the imagination and engaging the senses of audiences across various media platforms, including film, television, video games, and digital media. From traditional hand-drawn animation to computer-generated imagery (CGI), stop-motion, and mixed-media techniques, animation encompasses a diverse array of styles, genres, and aesthetic approaches, reflecting the creativity, ingenuity, and technological innovation of animators worldwide. |
| Anodized plate A type of offset printing press plate that is treated for protection against regular wear and tear. Anodization is a complex process that involves "electrolytic passivation," and increases the layer of natural oxide on the surface of metal. |
| ANSI The American National Standards Institute. This national group determines the guidelines governing a wide variety of commercially produced goods. |
| Anti-Offset Spray Powder Sprayed onto the printed paper as it leaves the press, this powder creates a minuscule gap between the sheets which allow them to be stacked, while still allowing them to air dry naturally, and avoiding ink transfer from one sheet to another. |
Antique An antique is an object, artifact, or work of art that is considered to be of historical, cultural, or artistic significance due to its age, rarity, craftsmanship, or intrinsic value. Typically, antiques are objects that are at least 100 years old, although specific definitions and criteria may vary depending on cultural traditions, legal statutes, and scholarly classifications.
From furniture and ceramics to paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, antiques encompass a wide range of collectible items that reflect the material culture, aesthetic tastes, and technological advancements of past civilizations and historical periods. Collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts often prize antiques for their historical provenance, aesthetic beauty, and investment potential, celebrating their enduring legacy and cultural resonance across generations. |
Appropriation Appropriation in art refers to the practice of borrowing, copying, or recontextualizing pre-existing images, objects, or cultural elements within a new artistic context. Artists who engage in appropriation often draw from a diverse range of sources, including mass media, advertising, historical artworks, and everyday objects, to create works that comment on issues of authorship, originality, identity, and cultural meaning.
Through appropriation, artists may challenge conventional notions of artistic creation, question the boundaries between high and low culture, or critique prevailing ideologies and power structures. While appropriation can raise questions about intellectual property rights and cultural appropriation, it also serves as a potent tool for exploring the complexities of cultural exchange, intertextuality, and the fluidity of meaning in contemporary art. |
Aquatint Aquatinting uses acid to remove an image from an etched metal plate. It differs from simple etching in that a powdered substance called rosin is added to the substance into which the image is carved.
The rosin is baked to set it on the matrix, and can then be scratched or burnished away to create tonal variations on the surface. Acid exposure is varied to affect separate sections differently. |
| Aqueous Coating This clear coating is applied to the paper by the printing press after the colored inks have been added. The aqueous coating protects against fingerprints and scuffs, adds a high gloss or matte finish, and may guard against fading due to UV light. |
Art Brut Art Brut, or "raw art" in French, refers to a genre of outsider art created by self-taught or non-traditionally trained artists who operate outside the boundaries of mainstream artistic institutions and conventions. Coined by French artist Jean Dubuffet in the mid-20th century, Art Brut encompasses a diverse array of artistic expressions, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works, characterized by their raw, unfiltered, and uninhibited aesthetic qualities.
Artists associated with Art Brut often have little or no formal artistic training, and their work may be driven by personal visions, inner compulsions, or idiosyncratic narratives that defy conventional artistic norms and expectations. By championing the authenticity, spontaneity, and radical individualism of outsider artists, Art Brut challenges traditional hierarchies of artistic value and celebrates the transformative power of creative expression across diverse cultural contexts and lived experiences. |
Art Criticism Art criticism is the practice of analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating works of art within their cultural, historical, and aesthetic contexts. Art critics engage in a range of critical methods and theoretical approaches, drawing upon disciplines such as art history, aesthetics, semiotics, sociology, and cultural studies to articulate informed assessments of artistic quality, significance, and meaning.
Through written reviews, scholarly essays, public lectures, and digital media platforms, art critics offer insights into the formal qualities, thematic concerns, and socio-political implications of individual artworks, artistic movements, and cultural trends. While art criticism is subjective by nature and subject to diverse perspectives and interpretations, it plays a vital role in shaping public discourse, fostering critical thinking, and deepening appreciation for the complexities of visual culture in an ever-changing world. |
Art Deco Art Deco is a prominent visual arts and design style that emerged in the early 20th century, reaching its peak of popularity during the interwar period of the 1920s and 1930s. Characterized by its geometric forms, sleek lines, bold colors, and luxurious materials, Art Deco reflected the modernist spirit of the era and celebrated technological innovation, industrial progress, and urban dynamism.
Drawing inspiration from diverse cultural sources, including ancient Egyptian motifs, African art, and avant-garde movements such as Cubism and Futurism, Art Deco manifested across various artistic disciplines, including architecture, interior design, fashion, jewelry, and graphic arts. Renowned examples of Art Deco architecture include the Chrysler Building in New York City and the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, while iconic Art Deco objects such as the Chrysler Airflow automobile and the Empire State Building's lobby murals epitomize the style's enduring influence on visual culture and aesthetic sensibilities worldwide. |
Art History Art history is the academic discipline devoted to the study, analysis, and interpretation of visual art forms across diverse cultural traditions, historical periods, and geographical regions. Rooted in the methodologies of art criticism, connoisseurship, and cultural studies, art history encompasses a wide range of scholarly approaches, including formal analysis, iconography, semiotics, social history, and postcolonial theory, among others.
By examining artworks in their historical, socio-political, and cultural contexts, art historians seek to elucidate the aesthetic principles, symbolic meanings, and ideological functions of visual imagery, while also tracing the evolution of artistic styles, techniques, and movements over time. From ancient cave paintings and classical sculptures to contemporary installations and digital media, art history provides a rich tapestry of human creativity, expression, and cultural exchange, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between art, society, and the human experience. |
Art Market The art market refers to the complex network of individuals, institutions, and transactions involved in the buying, selling, and valuation of artworks, collectibles, and cultural artifacts. Spanning a diverse range of sectors, including galleries, auction houses, dealerships, museums, and private collectors, the art market operates within a global economy of supply and demand, speculation, investment, and cultural exchange.
Key factors influencing the art market include the provenance, rarity, condition, and historical significance of artworks, as well as prevailing trends in taste, fashion, and collecting preferences among art patrons and investors. From Old Master paintings and contemporary sculptures to antiquities and decorative arts, the art market encompasses a wide spectrum of artistic genres and categories, catering to diverse audiences and financial interests while also raising ethical questions about authenticity, provenance, and the commodification of cultural heritage in a commercialized art world. |
| Art Nouveau A general decorative style popularized from the late 19th to early 20th century, identified by organic lines and intricate designs. The movement influence painting and sculpture, but was largely seen in architecture and decorative or graphic arts. |
Arte Povera Arte Povera, which translates to "poor art" in Italian, is an avant-garde art movement that emerged in Italy during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Rejecting the commercialism and consumerism of mainstream art practices, Arte Povera artists sought to challenge conventional notions of artistic materials, techniques, and institutional norms by embracing humble, everyday materials and processes in their work.
Characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, ephemerality, and the poetic resonance of mundane objects, Arte Povera encompassed a wide range of artistic practices, including sculpture, installation, performance, and site-specific interventions. Key figures associated with Arte Povera include artists such as Giovanni Anselmo, Mario Merz, Michelangelo Pistoletto, and Jannis Kounellis, whose innovative use of found materials, organic forms, and conceptual strategies transformed the boundaries of artistic expression and paved the way for subsequent generations of experimental artists exploring the intersections of art, nature, and human experience. |
Artisan An artisan is a skilled craftsperson who specializes in creating handmade objects or products through traditional methods and techniques. Rooted in centuries-old traditions of craftsmanship and apprenticeship, artisans apply their expertise and attention to detail to produce unique, high-quality goods that reflect a combination of technical proficiency, aesthetic sensibility, and cultural heritage.
From ceramics and woodworking to metalworking, textiles, and culinary arts, artisans work across diverse disciplines and mediums, preserving time-honored traditions while also adapting their craft to contemporary tastes and market demands. Through their dedication to craftsmanship and commitment to excellence, artisans play a vital role in sustaining artisanal traditions, fostering cultural identity, and promoting sustainable practices in an increasingly industrialized and globalized world. |
Artist Canvas Any canvas material intended and prepared for painting or other art mediums. Artist canvas is available on rolls, or pre-mounted on wood frames. Today, most canvas is made from cotton and linen, though hemp was common in the past. The canvas may be primed or unprimed, depending on the artists preference.
Order online:
Mounted Artist Canvas
Rolled Artist Canvas |
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| Artist's Proof A term used to distinguish a small number of perfect example prints from an edition. Usually an extra 10% not included in the total number of a limited edition. Generally the property of the artist and numbered in Roman numerals. |
Artistic Artistic pertains to qualities or attributes associated with creativity, imagination, and expression in the visual, literary, or performing arts. Individuals who possess artistic abilities demonstrate a capacity for originality, innovation, and aesthetic sensitivity in their creative endeavors, whether through painting, sculpture, writing, music, dance, theater, or other artistic disciplines.
Artistic expression encompasses a wide range of styles, techniques, and mediums, allowing artists to convey emotions, ideas, and experiences through diverse forms of visual and symbolic language. From classical realism and abstract experimentation to conceptual art and multimedia installations, artistic expression reflects the rich diversity of human experience and the boundless potential of creative imagination to inspire, provoke, and transform perceptions of the world. |
Artistic License Artistic license refers to the freedom granted to artists, writers, and creators to deviate from factual accuracy, conventional norms, or historical reality in the pursuit of creative expression and narrative invention. Rooted in the principle of creative autonomy, artistic license allows artists to embellish, reinterpret, or reinterpret subject matter, characters, events, and themes to serve the needs of their artistic vision, thematic intent, or dramatic impact.
While artistic license may involve departures from objective truth or logical coherence, it is essential for fostering innovation, imagination, and artistic innovation across various forms of cultural production, including literature, visual arts, film, and theater. Whether through the use of metaphor, symbolism, anachronism, or narrative ambiguity, artistic license enables creators to challenge conventions, provoke thought, and engage audiences in critical dialogue about the nature of truth, representation, and artistic interpretation in the creative process. |
Artwork Artwork refers to any creative expression or object produced by an artist or artisan that embodies aesthetic, symbolic, or cultural significance within a particular context or tradition. Artworks encompass a diverse range of visual, tactile, and conceptual forms, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, installations, performances, and multimedia compositions.
As artifacts of human creativity and cultural production, artworks often evoke emotional responses, intellectual inquiry, and subjective interpretations from viewers, reflecting the artist's intentions, personal experiences, and cultural influences embedded within their material and conceptual dimensions. Whether exhibited in galleries, museums, public spaces, or private collections, artworks serve as tangible manifestations of artistic vision, historical memory, and collective imagination, enriching the fabric of human experience and inspiring dialogue, reflection, and appreciation for the transformative power of art. |
| Assemblage An art genre similar to collage that arranges or transforms non-traditional items and materials into three-dimensional sculpture. |
Aura Aura, in the context of art and philosophy, refers to the unique presence, authenticity, and intangible qualities imbued within an artwork, object, or cultural artifact. Coined by German philosopher Walter Benjamin, the concept of aura suggests that original artworks possess a distinct aura of authenticity and historical significance that is irreplicable in reproductions or mass-produced copies.
According to Benjamin, the aura emanates from the physical and temporal proximity of the original object, embodying its singular materiality, artistic intention, and cultural resonance within a specific context of creation and reception. While the aura may diminish in an age of mechanical reproduction and digital dissemination, it remains a potent symbol of artistic authenticity and human connection to the material world, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysterious allure and enduring power of the art object in an increasingly mediated and virtualized landscape. |
| Automatism The process of creating art without conscious thought or planning. The Surrealist painters practiced "spontaneous painting," a similar concept. |
Avant-Garde Avant-garde refers to innovative, experimental, and often radical movements or practices that challenge established conventions, norms, and traditions within the realms of art, literature, music, and culture. Emerging at the forefront of cultural change and intellectual inquiry, avant-garde movements seek to break new ground, provoke critical discourse, and expand the boundaries of artistic expression beyond conventional modes of representation and perception.
From the Dadaists and Surrealists of the early 20th century to the Abstract Expressionists, Fluxus artists, and Conceptualists of the postwar era, avant-garde movements have embraced a spirit of rebellion, subversion, and visionary exploration, disrupting entrenched hierarchies of taste, authority, and cultural hegemony while fostering a spirit of creative experimentation and social transformation. |
Avant-Pop Avant-pop is a genre of music and cultural expression that combines elements of avant-garde experimentation with popular music forms, styles, and sensibilities. Characterized by its fusion of eclectic genres, unconventional song structures, and experimental soundscapes, avant-pop challenges traditional distinctions between high and low culture, mainstream and underground, by incorporating avant-garde aesthetics and subversive techniques into accessible, commercially viable music formats.
Artists associated with avant-pop include David Bowie, Björk, Kate Bush, and Talking Heads, whose innovative approaches to songwriting, performance, and production have pushed the boundaries of popular music and inspired generations of musicians and listeners to embrace the possibilities of creative freedom and artistic reinvention in the pursuit of new sonic horizons. |
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Balance Balance, in the context of art and design, refers to the distribution of visual elements within a composition to create a sense of equilibrium, harmony, and stability. Achieved through the careful arrangement of shapes, colors, textures, and spatial relationships, balance ensures that no single element overwhelms or dominates the overall composition, but rather contributes to a cohesive and unified whole. There are various types of balance, including symmetrical balance, asymmetrical balance, and radial balance, each offering distinct strategies for organizing visual elements and guiding the viewer's eye across the picture plane. By employing principles of balance, artists and designers can create visually engaging and aesthetically satisfying compositions that resonate with viewers and convey a sense of order, rhythm, and beauty within the realm of visual expression. |
Baltic Birch Baltic Birch Plywood is the leading plywood that is light in color with fine grain patterns. Its high durability and resistance is its strength, preventing warpage and blending.
A Baltic Birch Plywood is made of a strong material due to the usage of high-quality MR for veneer gluing. It is one of the most sold products for its long durability, low weight, surface hardness, quality, and high performance.
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| Baroque A 17th century artistic period that produced dramatic paintings with a lot of color, motion and easily interpreted details. Today, baroque picture frames are usually ornate gold foil, with intricate designs. |
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| Basis Weight Basis weight refers to the mass of paper or other substrates per unit area, typically expressed in grams per square meter (g/m²). |
| Batik An art technique that involves soaking wax-covered fabric in dye. The wax resists the dye, and is then removed with boiling water. As a result, the sections of the fabric covered with wax are uncolored. If multiple colors are required, the wax-covered sections can be dyed once the wax is removed. |
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| Bauhaus A school of artistic thought that originated in Germany following the Industrial Revolution, in an attempt to renew the link between industry invention and creativity many artists felt had been lost. |
Beauty Beauty is a subjective and multifaceted concept that encompasses qualities of aesthetic excellence, harmony, and emotional resonance perceived in objects, experiences, and individuals. Rooted in cultural, historical, and personal perspectives, beauty elicits feelings of pleasure, admiration, and wonder, evoking sensory and intellectual responses that transcend rational analysis.
While beauty is often associated with physical attractiveness, it also encompasses broader dimensions of spiritual, moral, and existential significance, reflecting ideals of symmetry, proportion, and balance that have informed artistic traditions and philosophical inquiry throughout history. From the sublime landscapes of nature to the sublime achievements of human creativity, beauty inspires contemplation, creativity, and a sense of connection to the transcendent and the divine, inviting individuals to seek meaning, truth, and fulfillment in the pursuit of aesthetic experience and cultural expression. |
Beaux-Arts Beaux-Arts, meaning "fine arts" in French, refers to a neoclassical architectural style and academic tradition that originated in 19th-century France and became influential throughout Europe and the United States. Characterized by its grandiose scale, formal symmetry, ornate decoration, and classical design principles, Beaux-Arts architecture sought to integrate elements of Greek, Roman, and Renaissance aesthetics into monumental public buildings, civic spaces, and cultural institutions.
Inspired by the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, which emphasized rigorous training in drawing, drafting, and design, Beaux-Arts architects and urban planners aimed to create cohesive urban environments and civic landmarks that embodied principles of order, proportion, and civic pride. Notable examples of Beaux-Arts architecture include the Grand Palais and Petit Palais in Paris, the New York Public Library, and the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., all of which reflect the enduring legacy and monumental aspirations of this influential architectural style. |
| Ben-day Dots A color printing process developed in the late 19th century that accounts for the multi-colored blocks of color seen in many old comic books. The artist Roy Lichtenstein recreated this style by hand in many of his paintings. |
| Bierstadt, Albert An American painter originally from Germany, Bierstadt was best recognized for his romanticized landscapes of the American West. He was a part of the Hudson River School and the Rocky Mountain School of painters. He was known for creating highly publicized events around his exhibits, with extensive promotion and even the sale of tickets. His piece "Rocky Mountain Landscape" is displayed in the White House. |
| Binder One of the components that makes up paint, the binder is the substance that determines consistency, and ensures cohesion between the ingredients. |
Biomorphism Biomorphism is an artistic and design movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by organic, fluid, and abstract forms inspired by elements of nature, biology, and the human body. Rooted in Surrealism, Art Nouveau, and modernist aesthetics, biomorphic art seeks to evoke the visual and tactile qualities of natural organisms, cellular structures, and anatomical motifs through stylized and imaginative compositions.
Biomorphism encompasses a wide range of artistic mediums and disciplines, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and industrial design, where artists and designers explore themes of growth, transformation, and interconnectedness between living organisms and their environments. From the sinuous curves of Art Nouveau to the biomorphic abstractions of Surrealist painting, biomorphism celebrates the fluidity, dynamism, and aesthetic diversity of organic forms while challenging conventional distinctions between nature and culture, reality and imagination, in the quest for new modes of sensory experience and creative expression. |
Blanket The rubber surface in a printing press onto which the ink is transferred from the metal plate before it is pressed to the paper or other printing material.
This is a necessary step between the metal plate and the paper because the rubber allows the blanket to conform to the subtle textures of different papers, adhering the ink more completely.
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| Blind Image This term refers to an image on printed paper that is stamped, embossed, or otherwise imprinted into the paper, but not delineated by any color of ink or foil. |
| Blocking In offset printing, the unfortunate occurrence of printed sheets sticking together due to tacky ink, humidity, or other factors, which is problematic when separating the pages at a later date. |
| Blow up Another word for enlargement; the act of increasing the print size of an image, photograph, or block of text. |
Blueline An inexpensive photographic proof created prior to printing the full run of the image on a printing press. A blueline is created from a negative on which all the colors are blue (or possibly a different color) and shades of blue. Printing plate negatives are exposed to photosensitive paper to create the proof.
Blueline proofs are "contact proofs," so called because the creation process requires they come into contact with a specific kind of paper.
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| Board paper Also called paperboard, the designation given to papers greater than 110 lb, or 80lb cover stock - 200 gsm. Paper of this thickness is often used for file folders or post cards. |
Body Art Body art refers to any form of artistic expression or adornment applied to the human body, including tattoos, body painting, scarification, piercing, and other forms of modification and decoration. Rooted in cultural traditions, rituals, and personal expressions of identity and belonging, body art encompasses a wide range of styles, techniques, and meanings across different societies and historical periods.
From tribal markings and ceremonial tattoos to contemporary forms of self-expression and body modification, body art serves as a powerful vehicle for communication, social commentary, and individual empowerment, challenging conventional norms of beauty, gender, and identity while celebrating the diversity and resilience of the human spirit. As a dynamic and evolving art form, body art continues to inspire creativity, self-discovery, and community engagement, inviting individuals to explore the boundaries of their bodies and minds through acts of transformation and self-expression. |
| Bouguereau, William-Adolphe A French painter (1825 – 1905) who worked in the Realism style, often choosing mythological and Classical themes for his paintings. |
| Bristol paper/board Bristol refers to papers with a 90lb to 200lb weight (200-500 gsm). This style of paper is often used for index cards and display signage. |
| Bromide In photography, refers to a print that is created on bromide paper. The paper is coated in silver bromide, resulting in neutral black and white images, or those with a blue-black tint. |
| Bronzing In printmaking, an effect created when the print is dusted with metallic powder before the ink has dried. |
Brushstroke A brushstroke is a visible mark or gesture made by a paintbrush or similar tool on a surface, typically associated with painting and drawing techniques. Brushstrokes vary in size, shape, direction, and pressure, reflecting the artist's intent, technique, and expressive style. They can range from precise and controlled to loose and gestural, conveying a sense of texture, movement, and spontaneity within a composition.
Brushstrokes play a crucial role in creating visual interest, rhythm, and depth within a painting, allowing artists to manipulate color, form, and texture to evoke emotions, suggest spatial relationships, and capture the essence of their subjects with nuance and sensitivity. From the impasto textures of Vincent van Gogh to the delicate washes of watercolor landscapes, brushstrokes serve as a signature of artistic identity and a testament to the creative process of painting as a medium of expression and exploration. |
Brushwork Brushwork refers to the manner or technique by which an artist applies paint to a surface using a brush or similar tool. It encompasses a wide range of mark-making gestures, strokes, and techniques employed by artists to manipulate color, texture, and form within a painting. Brushwork can vary in its speed, pressure, direction, and viscosity of paint, resulting in distinct effects such as smooth blends, textured impastos, expressive flourishes, or delicate glazes.
Artists often develop their own unique brushwork styles and methods, drawing inspiration from diverse traditions, schools, and movements in art history while also experimenting with new materials, tools, and approaches to achieve their desired aesthetic effects. Whether bold and expressive or refined and meticulous, brushwork serves as a fundamental aspect of painting, reflecting the artist's creative vision, technical proficiency, and emotional engagement with the act of mark-making on canvas or other surfaces. |
Byzantine Byzantine refers to the art, architecture, and culture associated with the Byzantine Empire, which flourished from the 4th century AD until the fall of Constantinople in 1453. Characterized by its blend of Greco-Roman, Christian, and Eastern influences, Byzantine art and architecture are known for their opulent ornamentation, intricate mosaics, and religious iconography, reflecting the empire's status as a center of Christian faith and imperial power in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Byzantine artists and craftsmen produced a rich legacy of illuminated manuscripts, frescoes, religious icons, and monumental structures such as Hagia Sophia and the Church of San Vitale, which exemplify the fusion of classical motifs with symbolic and spiritual themes. Byzantine art exerted a profound influence on subsequent artistic traditions in the Eastern Orthodox world, as well as in medieval Europe and the Islamic world, shaping the development of religious iconography, decorative arts, and architectural design for centuries to come. |
Byzantine Art Byzantine art refers to the artistic traditions, styles, and cultural expressions that flourished within the Byzantine Empire from the 4th to the 15th century AD. Rooted in the Christian faith and influenced by Hellenistic, Roman, and Eastern traditions, Byzantine art encompassed various mediums including mosaic, icon painting, manuscript illumination, fresco, metalwork, and textiles.
Characterized by its spiritual symbolism, stylized forms, and rich ornamentation, Byzantine art served both religious and political purposes, conveying the theological teachings of the Orthodox Church and asserting the imperial authority of the Byzantine rulers. Iconography, in particular, played a central role in Byzantine art, with religious icons serving as objects of veneration and meditation for believers while also embodying the divine presence and mystical essence of the Christian faith. Notable examples of Byzantine art include the mosaics of Ravenna, the icon paintings of Mount Athos, and the illuminated manuscripts of the Byzantine monasteries, which continue to inspire awe and reverence for their timeless beauty and spiritual significance. |
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Call for Entry A call for entry is a formal invitation or announcement issued by an organization, institution, gallery, or competition organizer to solicit submissions of artwork, proposals, or projects for consideration in an upcoming exhibition, event, or creative opportunity. Calls for entry typically specify the theme, criteria, and submission guidelines for prospective participants, including deadlines, entry fees (if applicable), format requirements, and selection criteria.
Artists, designers, and creatives may respond to calls for entry by submitting portfolios, images, descriptions, or proposals of their work for review and consideration by a jury, panel of judges, or selection committee. Calls for entry serve as a means of promoting artistic engagement, fostering community participation, and providing opportunities for emerging and established artists to showcase their talents, gain exposure, and contribute to the cultural dialogue within their respective fields of practice. |
| Calligraphy A style of typography (written) art that results in decorative and beautiful images forms from words and letters. Calligraphy artists must be highly skilled in order to layout words as art in a harmonious and elegant manner. |
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| Camera-ready Copy Any digital or digitized artwork that is ready for print as per the specifics of the process being used for reproduction. These files may also be called "finished art" or "reproduction copy". |
Canon In the arts and humanities, a canon refers to a set of authoritative works, texts, or standards that are considered exemplary or foundational within a particular field, discipline, tradition, or cultural context. The canon may encompass literary classics, artistic masterpieces, philosophical treatises, musical compositions, religious scriptures, or other forms of cultural expression that have achieved enduring significance, influence, and recognition over time. The concept of the canon reflects evolving notions of cultural value, aesthetic merit, and historical relevance, shaped by factors such as cultural heritage, educational curricula, critical scholarship, and societal norms.
While the canon has traditionally reflected the perspectives and priorities of dominant social groups and cultural institutions, it has also been subject to criticism, revision, and diversification to include voices, perspectives, and narratives that have been marginalized, excluded, or underrepresented within mainstream discourse. As a dynamic and contested concept, the canon continues to evolve in response to changing attitudes, values, and interpretations within the broader landscape of cultural production and reception. |
Canvas A heavy-duty, tightly woven fabric; rolls of specialty canvas are used in inkjet prints to produce Giclée canvas prints. After they are printed, the canvas is treated with a protective coating that guards against scratching, and dust and water damage.
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Mounted Artist Canvas
Rolled Artist Canvas |
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| Caricature A form of visual satire, in which a figure - usually a recognizable person - is depicted with exaggerated or distorted features, similar to a cartoon reproduction |
Cartography Cartography is the art and science of creating maps, charts, and geographic representations of the Earth's surface, terrain, and spatial relationships. Dating back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece, cartography has played a pivotal role in human history, exploration, navigation, and territorial governance, providing essential tools and visualizations for understanding the world and its diverse landscapes.
Cartographers employ various techniques and technologies, including surveying, aerial photography, satellite imagery, geographic information systems (GIS), and digital mapping software, to collect, analyze, and represent geographical data in a systematic and accurate manner. From topographic maps and nautical charts to thematic maps and interactive atlases, cartography serves diverse purposes in fields such as geography, urban planning, environmental science, transportation, archaeology, and disaster management, facilitating spatial analysis, decision-making, and communication of information across different scales and contexts. |
Carve To carve is to sculpt or cut into a material, such as wood, stone, metal, or clay, using tools and techniques to create three-dimensional forms, textures, and patterns. Carving is a versatile and ancient artistic practice that has been employed by cultures around the world for thousands of years, producing objects of utility, ritual significance, and aesthetic beauty. Carving techniques vary depending on the material being worked, as well as the desired outcome and artistic style.
Common carving tools include chisels, gouges, knives, saws, and rasps, which are used to remove material gradually and shape it into desired forms. From intricate woodcarvings adorning furniture and architectural details to monumental stone sculptures gracing public squares and temples, carving encompasses a wide range of artistic expressions and traditions, reflecting the skill, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage of the artisans who practice this time-honored craft. |
| Casein Named for the milk protein that is used to make it, casein is a water-based, water soluble paint that dries quickly. It has been used since Egyptian times. |
| Cassatt, Mary An American painter (1844 – 1926) who spent most of her life in France and worked primarily in the Impressionism genre, with much of her subject matter depicting women and children |
| Cezanne, Paul A French painter (1839–1906) who is widely considered one of the founders of the Post-Impressionist painting genre. |
| Chine collé A printmaking method. The image is transferred onto thin paper or fabric with some translucency. The image is then mounted onto a hard surface, creating a different background color than the original image. |
| Chromogenic color print A traditional photo printing technique in which color dyes are created by chemical reactions. Three main dye layers are used: magenta, cyan, and yellow. The prints are produced from color negatives or slides. |
| CMYK A common color mode term used by graphic artists and print technicians. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, and identifies the color cartridges commonly used in ink jet printers. |
Coated paper Refers to any paper that has been treated on the surface to achieve a specific quality: a shine or gloss finish, extra stiffness, texture or altered ink absorbency.
Commonly used for photographic printing, these papers have a coating of clay or another thin compound, and will be classed as "dull, matte, gloss, or cast. |
| Collagraphy Collagraphy uses various materials glued to rigid wood or paperboard to create a surface with many diverse textures. Ink is applied to this surface (either the raised or recessed sections)and pressed onto the paper to create the print. |
| Color balance In printing, the term "color balance" relates to the amount of primary colors (Red, Green, Blue, or Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) required to mix and recreate the colors of the image |
| Color blanks When printing text on images, color blanks may be created as proofs, which reproduce the images but not the type or lettering. Also referred to as "shells". |
| Color break When a print is created using multiple colors, the color break is the point at which one color stops and another begins. May also be called a "break for color". |
| Color field painting A painting technique that is identified by large areas of solid color on the canvas, generally with no tonal contrasts or specific areas of focus. |
Color gamut In color reproduction, including computer graphics and photography, the gamut, or color gamut (pronounced /ˈɡæmət/), is a certain complete subset of colors. Most commonly, this phrase refers to the subset of colors which can be accurately represented by a certain output device.
Another meaning, less frequently used but no less correct, refers to the complete set of colors found within an image at a given time. In this context, digitizing a photograph, converting a digitized image to a different color space, or outputting it to a medium using a certain output device will most likely alter its gamut, losing some of the colors, tints, or shades in the process.
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| Color shift Refers to changes in the color of an image across a single print, due to density of the ink or the grain of the applied color dots. |
| Color Triangle The primary colors arranged in a triangle, with one color at each corner. The additive color results are then blended within the rest of the triangle. For example: blue bleeding into yellow between those two corners, and yellow bleeding into red between those two colors. |
| Color Wheel Identifies the primary, secondary and tertiary colors and their relation to one another. More detailed color wheels show possible shades of each color, when mixed with varying amounts of white. |
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| Colour wheel An abstract illustrative organization of color hues around a circle, which shows the relationships between primary colors, secondary colors, tertiary colors etc. |
| Combine Another collage-like art technique, combines use various objects to construct artworks on traditional surfaces, such as canvas. |
| Complementary colours A pair of colors that produce black when combined (or in the case of colored light, white). Placed side by side, this pair creates the greatest possible contract between the colors. Complementary color pairs in the RGB model: red and cyan; yellow and blue; magenta and green. |
| Composition The layout or arrangement of an artwork. The artist "composes" the work by determining where the visual elements should lie within the viewing space. Different arrangements, such as the main subject close to the viewer, or moved far back in the scene, lend different moods to the finished work. |
| Comprehensive Dummy In printing, a proof that is fully assembled, with all typography, images, and colors. May also be called a color comprehensive. |
| Conceptual art A genre of visual art that focuses more on the process, theories, and ideas behind creating the artwork or installation than on the finished piece itself. For instance, Marcel Duchamp's Readymades, or Eric Cameron's layered paint objects. |
| Cornea The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped outermost layer of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber, and plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina for vision. In laser engraving and ophthalmic surgery, the cornea is a critical anatomical structure that requires precise treatment and protection to maintain visual acuity and eye health. Laser technologies such as LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) utilize focused laser beams to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Laser engraving systems equipped with advanced optics and safety features ensure accurate and controlled delivery of laser energy to the cornea, resulting in safe and effective vision correction procedures with minimal risk of complications or tissue damage. |
Crop marks Crop marks are small dashes, usually in black or gray ink, which appear at each corner of a printed image to indicate where the paper should be cut.
They are most commonly used when a white border - the same color as the paper - will be included around the cropped image. |
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Deboss The act of pressing and image or seal into paper so it is indented and visible below the paper's surface. This is also referred to as tooling. |
| Degas, Edgar A French artist best known for his paintings of ballet dancers, created in the Impressionist style (though he preferred "realism"). (1834-1917) |
Density In printing, density may refer to one of three things:
1) Ink - the thickness of the ink on the paper
2) Color - a color's ability to absorb reflected light, or prevent its emission
3) Paper - how loosely or tightly the fibers of the paper are woven together. |
| Diptych An artistic image created on two separate panels that are hinged in the middle, so to be self-standing. Contemporary art that is divided onto two canvas or framed wall-hanging panels my be considered a Diptych as well. |
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| Drypoint Printmaking A type of engraving, drypoint plates are created using a sharp point instead of a v-shaped tool in traditional engraving. The scratching of the tool leaves rough edges on the markings, which results in a print with soft or even blurry lines. The pressure of the printing press flattens these rough edges quickly, so most drypoint plates are used only for small print runs. |
Dye Sublimation Sublimation is a process where an image can be printed onto transfer paper using dye-based inks and then with heat and pressure become transferred into the substrate.
Dye sublimation on hard surface surfaces is possible if the surfaces have been coated. Instead of printing images directly on a surface, which may scratch easily, the image is infused into the coating to provide permanent protection and durability.
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Easel Stand A stand commonly used for displaying framed artwork. A horizontal beam affixed to the front two legs supports the art. These legs meet a back vertical support at approximately a 20 degree angle, allowing the art to be propped against the two front-facing legs.
Traditionally constructed from wood, but now available in a wide range of materials including aluminium and plastic.
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Artist Easels |
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| Edition Refers to the run of a printed item, such as a book or artwork print. "Limited" edition prints and books will have only a set amount of copies produced. "First" edition is the first publication run or printing of a book or print. May also refer to different versions of a product (ie: 20th Anniversary Edition with additional pages). |
| Encaustic A wax-based paint made by combining beeswax (traditionally), resin and colored pigment. Once the mixture is applied to the painting surface, it is heated to fuse the color to the surface |
| Engraving The process of carving or cutting an image or text design into a hard surface, most often wood, metal or glass. The result is a decoration in reverse-relief (cut in, not raised out) on the face of the object. |
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Etching Traditionally, a process of engraving - most commonly glass, stone or metal - by using a needle to scratch through a protective coating, then adding acid to eat away at the exposed sections, without affecting the protected area. Used on metal plates that were then inked and applied to paper to create a print.
Also refers directly to the print created from an etched plate.
Today, may refer in general to the act of scratching a design into a hard surface. |
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Fine art Any of the visual arts, including painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture and some performance art. The term generally excludes other art forms such as poetry, literature, dance and music. |
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Fine Art Reproduction The process of photographing or scanning original artworks and digitally color matching them, and then printing copies with a high quality - usually giclée - printer on conservation-grade (archival) paper or canvas.
We offer high quality fine art print reproductions of your favorite artwork. |
| Flatbed Printer A printer, generally wide-format, that can print directly onto rigid materials. Instead of passing a roll of substrate through, the flat material is placed on a bed or table equipped with rollers, which feed it beneath a sliding print head. |
| Flood In printing, this term refers to filling an entire page with ink, so that no blank paper or canvas remains. This is also known as "painting the sheet". |
| Foil imaging A relatively new style of printmaking that was first practised in the late 1980s, foil imaging involves using a heat press to apply roll-leaf, "hot stamped" foil to various surfaces to create iridescent, reflective images. Some artists combine traditional printmaking methods with foil imaging in their pieces. |
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Gauguin, Paul Paul Gauguin was a French Post-Impressionist painter whose experimental use of color was only appreciated posthumously. (1848-1903) |
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Gel Medium Also called acrylic gel medium.
A thick, usually transparent substance that is used to alter the consistency or appearance of acrylic paints. Depending on the type used, a gel medium can add or reduce gloss, adhere mixed media or extend the amount of paint.
Gel medium is available in matte, gloss and semi-gloss and some are self-levelling (when poured, create a smooth surface without manual smoothing).
When used on their own, gel medium creates a textured surface on canvas prints that dries clear, effectively enhancing brush strokes and highlighting portions of the art where the application is thicker. |
Gesso A chalk-based paint mixture that is used to create texture on canvas surfaces prior to, or in lieu of, painting. Due to its absorbency, it can serve as a base for most types of paint.
Modern acrylic "Gesso" is actually a combination of Calcium Carbonate with an acrylic polymer medium latex, a pigment and other chemicals that ensure flexibility, and ensure long archival life.
It is also used as a base on sculptural work, wall paintings and wood panelling, or for priming blank canvas prior to oil painting. |
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| Glossy Finish A high shine finish like that found on traditional photographic prints and resin-coated surfaces. The high degree of reflect creates very vibrant colors, but can obscure the image in certain lighting. |
Glued plywood Glued plywood is a multilayer wood material, which is sheets of peeled veneer
glued together. Usually plywood is formed from an odd number of veneer sheets. |
| Golden Paints A company that manufactures and sells art products, including slow-drying and heavy body acrylic paints, gels and pastes, and topcoats. They also have their own color library. |
Golden ratio A mathematical concept utilized in art to achieve a visually harmonious composition. It was largely used by Leonardo da Vinci.
The radio of 1:1.6 results in a slightly asymmetrical layout that is widely considered satisfying to the viewer. |
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| Grade The term used to differentiate between printing paper thicknesses, finish, class, category or rating. |
| Gris, Juan (1887-1927) A spanish sculptor and painter in the Cubism genre. |
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Handmade Oil Paintings Any original painting done completely by hand (without digital assistance) using oil-based paints. At KeenART Media, we offer high-quality, beautifully executed handmade oil paintings of any digital image, created by talented artists. |
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| Hue A color or shade. For example: Blue, grey, maroon. |
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Impression In art, generally refers to a quick sketch or simple rendering of an image or scene, intended to capture the "impression" of the moment.
Also refers to an indentation created by pressing a hard shape into a softer surface. |
| Imprint Similar to an impression, a mark made by pressing an object onto a flexible substrate that will then retain the reverse image of that object. |
Inscription May refer to a dedication in a book or other published material.
Also refers to the act of inscribing something into a surface - using a sharp point to carve words or images into a hard surface, similar to etching. |
| Intaglio printmaking Intaglio is the reverse of Relief printmaking. A design is created on a rigid plate, but the ink is poured over the entire surface and then wiped from the raised portions, leaving ink only in the recesses. As a result, the raised portions will remain white in the print, while the recesses will appear on the paper. |
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Klimt, Gustav An Austrian symbolist painter who most commonly depicted the female form. (1862-1918) |
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Limited Edition In printmaking, multiples of a print struck from the same plate may be limited to a certain number of copies. This also refers to other forms of published artwork that are identical, usually published at the same time, and limited to a quoted number. For prints, edition numbers are conventionally marked in pencil using fraction format: the bottom number indicates the total number of prints in the edition, and the top number indicates the order in which the print was signed. The publisher undertakes not to produce more than edition size. The smaller the edition size, the more rare the print, and hence the higher the potential value. Edition sizes range from an edition of 2 to thousands. In practice, editions of more than 750 prints have little, if any, extra value. |
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| Limited Edition Print When an artist prints a run of the same image, they determine how many of that image are to be printed. If they choose to print only 100, or 1000 copies of one image, it is limited edition. Each print will usually feature the print number (34/100) and the artist's signature. The more exclusive the piece (the fewer prints), the more expensive and valuable. |
Linen Canvas Artist's canvas is make from a variety of fabrics. Linen and cotton are the most common.
Linen is more expensive. It is longer lasting, due in part to the oils retained in the canvas that keep it pliable, and less likely to expand, due to the equally weighted threads used to construct the canvas. |
| Linocut Linocut is a printmaking technique in which a design is carved into the surface of a linoleum block using cutting tools, leaving raised areas that will receive ink for printing. The linoleum block is then inked with a roller, and paper is pressed onto the block to transfer the inked design onto the paper. Linocut prints are characterized by their bold lines, textures, and graphic quality, resulting from the relief surface of the linoleum block. Artists can create multiple prints from a single linoleum block, varying the colors, papers, and printing techniques to achieve different effects. Linocut is a versatile and accessible printmaking technique popular among artists, illustrators, and printmakers for its expressive potential and tactile qualities. |
| Liquitex A company that manufactures and sells art products, including acrylic paints, varnish, brushes, spray paints, and more. |
Lithograph A copy of a work that is created by the artist himself (ie: not a print created years later from a digital image).
The artist creates a mirror image of the artwork using grease pencils on stone. Oil-based ink is then applied to the piece, and bonds with the grease but avoids the uncolored areas. Canvas or paper is then laid over the plate and pressed to transfer the ink onto the material. The plate is then re-inked for the next sheet of material. |
| Lustre Finish A semi-glossy finish that reflects light without compromising the image with a visible reflection. |
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Macke, August A German Expressionist painter and part of The Blue Rider group. (1887-1914) |
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| Manet, Édouard (1832-1883) A French painter of Realism and Impressionism genres, best known for his controversial works such as "Olympia" and "Luncheon on the Grass". |
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| Marc, Franz A German painter and printmaker who helped to found the Blue Rider publication and group of painters. (1880-1916) |
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| Matte Finish A non-glossy, "flat" finish that creates an even reflective surface with no glare. Matte paper is generally smooth in texture. |
Media Art media, medium.
Any material used to create an artwork, including but not limited to paint, stone, plaster, pencil, pastel.
Not to be confused with substrates, which are the surfaces onto which the media is placed, such as canvas, paper, wood.
Plaster, for example, can be used as both media (sculpting) and substrate (a painting surface). |
| Mezzotint A printmaking technique developed in the 16th century in Germany. A subgenre of Engraving, mezzotints use a copper plate that is first roughened with a special tool. The image is then formed using a burnisher to smooth areas of the surface to varying degrees. The rougher areas hold more ink than the smooth areas, so when the paper is pressed to the plate, many different densities are achieved. |
| Microfiber A synthetic fiber that is thinner than the threads usually used for woven fabrics. The result is an extremely soft, absorbent cloth suitable for cleaning scratch-sensitive surfaces. Unless otherwise noted, microfiber cloths are the best choice for cleaning picture frame glass or plexiglass. |
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| Modersohn-Becker, Paula A German painter and a significant influence on early Expressionism, she is credited with helping to introduce modernism in painting. (1876-1907) |
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| Modigliani, Amedeo Clemente An Italian painter and sculptor known for his portraits that serves as caricatures of the figures they depicted. (1884 – 1920) |
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| Monet, Claude A French painter, one of the founders of the Impressionist movement, best known for his water lily and haystack paintings. (1840 – 1926) |
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| Monoprint Like a monotype, each print created with a monoprint plate differs greatly. This is because different colors, types, or thicknesses of ink are used for each print. Monoprints may be created in the relief or intaglio style. |
| Monotype Developed by an Italian painter in the 17th century, a monotype is a planographic printmaking technique that produces a single quality print. An image is created on a non-absorbent surface (glass, metal, zinc) using paint or other media. When the paper is pressed to the plate, most of the ink is transferred to the paper. Any additional prints are generally quite faded and are called "ghost prints". |
| Morisot, Berthe An Impressionist painter from France who exhibited in the Paris salons with Monet, Cezanne, and Degas. (1841 – 1895) |
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Needle Art Refers to a wide variety of crafts that involve thread stitched into canvas with a needle, to produce a two dimensional, textured artwork. Includes cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery and tapestry. |
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| Needlework Refers to a the process of stitching thread into canvas with a needle, to produce a two dimensional, textured artwork. Includes cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery and tapestry. |
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Opacity Opacity refers to the degree to which a material or substance blocks the transmission of light or allows objects behind it to be obscured or concealed. In the context of printing, opacity is an important property of paper, ink, and other printing materials that affects the visibility and legibility of printed text, images, and graphics. Opacity is typically expressed as a percentage, with higher opacity indicating greater light-blocking ability and less see-through or show-through of underlying layers.
Opacity is influenced by factors such as paper thickness, weight, and composition, as well as ink coverage, color density, and printing process. High-opacity papers are preferred for double-sided printing, where text and images must remain legible without interference from content printed on the reverse side. |
| Open Edition Print Any series of fine art print for which a limited number of copies was not specified; thousands of copies may be produced. This diminishes the worth of the piece, but also the original cost. |
Open edition prints An open edition print has no limit to the number of copies made. While a limited edition print has a set number - 10, 50, or 1000, for instance, after which time no more copies will be made - open edition implies the artist can continue making prints indefinitely.
As a result, open edition prints are generally cheaper than limited editions, and will not amass the same value over time.
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Paisley A term in English for a design using the buta or boteh, a droplet-shaped vegetable motif of Persian origin. Such designs became very popular in the West in the 18th and 19th centuries, following imports of post-Mughal versions of the design from India, especially in the form of Kashmir shawls, and were then imitated locally. In contemporary use, paisley became identified with psychedelic style due to a resurgence in the pattern's mainstream popularity leading up the mid and late 1960s. |
| Papyrus A thin paper made from the papyrus plant, originally used in ancient Egypt due to the abundance of the plant there. Due to its extreme fragility, great care must be taken in framing artwork on papyrus. Some artists and calligraphers still use it today. |
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Pastel An art medium in the form of a stick, consisting of pure powdered pigment and a binder. The pigments used in pastels are the same as those used to produce all colored art media, including oil paints; the binder is of a neutral hue and low saturation. The color effect of pastels is closer to the natural dry pigments than that of any other process.
Pastels have been used by artists since the Renaissance, and gained considerable popularity in the 18th century, when a number of notable artists made pastel their primary medium. |
Pastel Paper Since pastel paintings rarely cover the entire surface on which they are painted, paper selection is important. Pastel papers come in a variety of colors, textures and sizes.
The color of the paper will affect the final temperature of the art, lending a richer or starker tone to the image. Texture options range from extremely smooth to as coarse as sandpaper. |
| Pattern Discernible regularity in the world or in a manmade design. As such, the elements of a pattern repeat in a predictable manner. |
| Photo engraving Photoengraving is a process that uses a light-sensitive photoresist applied to the surface to be engraved to create a mask that shields some areas during a subsequent operation which etches, dissolves, or otherwise removes some or all of the material from the unshielded areas. Normally applied to metal, it can also be used on glass, plastic and other materials. |
| Photogravure An intaglio printmaking process which coats a copper plate with a light-sensitive compound and then etches the surface. This method can result in extremely detailed, photo-realistic images, and is similar to photoengraving. |
| Pissarro, Camille 1830-1903: A Danish-French Impressionist painter who inspired Renoir and Cezanne. Order a Pissarro classic painting print today. |
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| PMMA PMMA or acrylic is a widely used transparent plastic material known for its applications in various markets from picture framing, car windows, smartphone screens to aquariums. It is a tough plastic, easy to shape and a great alternative to the high cost and less resilient glass. |
| Pop Art An art movement originating in the United States in the 1950s, that focused on subject matter that was common in popular culture. For instance, Andy Warhol's screenprints of celebrities, and Roy Lichtenstein's comic book enlargements. |
Portrait A portrait is a genre of photography that focuses on capturing the likeness, personality, and character of individuals or groups of people. Portraits often emphasize the facial expressions, gestures, and emotions of the subjects, aiming to convey a sense of intimacy, connection, and identity through the image. Portrait photography can encompass a wide range of styles and approaches, from formal studio portraits with controlled lighting and posing to candid, environmental portraits captured in natural settings or everyday environments.
Portraits may be commissioned for personal, professional, or artistic purposes, including family portraits, senior portraits, corporate headshots, editorial portraits, and fine art portraiture. Successful portrait photography requires a combination of technical skill, interpersonal rapport, and artistic vision to capture authentic and compelling images that resonate with viewers and evoke a sense of empathy, curiosity, or admiration. |
| Primary Colors A set of colors that, when combined, present as different colors. Red, green and blue are additive primary colors. When overlapped in different ratios, new colors are created. Yellow, cyan and magenta are subtractive primary colors used in mixing pigments or dyes. |
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Primed canvas A blank painter's canvas coated with a lead paint that reduces the absorbency of the canvas and improves the application the artist's paint. Canvas may be single or double-primed, as well as coated for a specific use, such as acrylic or oil paints.
KeenART Media offers double-primed and unprimed blank artist canvases for sale.
Order online: Artist Canvas |
Print Printing in photography refers to the process of producing physical copies of digital images on paper or other printable substrates using a variety of printing methods and technologies. Printed photographs serve as tangible, archival records of visual memories, artistic expressions, and moments captured by photographers. Printing allows photographers to showcase their work, share their vision with others, and preserve their images for posterity. Common printing methods used in photography include inkjet printing, laser printing, and traditional photographic printing processes such as silver halide printing (e.g., darkroom printing) and digital C-type printing (e.g., digital chromogenic printing).
The choice of printing method depends on factors such as image quality, color accuracy, durability, cost, and intended use. Photographers may print their images for personal enjoyment, portfolio presentation, exhibition, commercial sale, or publication in books, magazines, and fine art prints. Printing technology continues to evolve, offering photographers and artists a wide range of options and opportunities to produce high-quality, archival prints that faithfully reproduce the beauty and impact of their digital images. |
Printmaking Printmaking is the act of transferring ink through a screen or plate (a matrix) onto paper or another substrate.
As an art, printmaking does not extend to the reproduction of original artworks in other mediums. Rather, the term refers to any number of techniques that allow for multiple reproductions of the same image to be created.
Due to the process, each "impression" will vary slightly from the others making each an original, not a copy. Often a limited number of impressions - called an "edition" - will be created from each plate, after which time the plate is destroyed to guarantee the exclusivity of the edition. |
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Quatrefoil In art, architecture, and traditional Christian symbolism, the quatrefoil is a type of decorative framework consisting of a symmetrical shape which forms the overall outline of four partially overlapping circles of the same diameter. The word quatrefoil means "four leaves", from Latin quattuor, four, plus folium, a leaf. |
Quill A writing tool that was used from the 6th to 19th century. The stem of a feather (most often Goose) was cut into a diagonal point and dipped in ink, which was held in the hollow tube. The sharp tip was then used to transfer the ink to the paper.
Today, quills are used in calligraphy and other art methods. |
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Relief A sculptural technique that involves carving into a flat surface so the image appears raised from the background. In actuality, a subtractive method is used which results in the material around the image being removed, also called "lowering the field." |
| Relief printmaking Relief printmaking involves applying ink to a rigid matrix that has been carved or etched with the intended design. The ink is placed on the raised portions of the carving; when the matrix is pressed to the paper, the raised portions will show, and the recesses will remain the color of the paper. |
| Renoir, Auguste 1841-1919: A French impressionism painter who worked alongside Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, and Camille Pissaro. Order a Renoir classic art print today. |
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| Reproduction A reproduction is a copy of an original. This copy may be made using the same materials as the original (for instance, one artist reproducing an earlier artwork), or a digital copy of the original may be created using a printer. Reproductions make it possible for the artist to sell the same work to multiple buyers, and allow collectors to purchase a less costly version of an original artwork. |
| RGB A color mode or system representing the primary colors that are combined to display all the colors seen on a traditional computer monitor. It stands for Red, Green, Blue. |
| Rotogravure An intaglio printing method in which the image is carved or imprinted onto a cylindrical carrier, then applied to paper prints by a pressurized rolling process. |
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Satin Finish As opposed to the high shine of a glossy finish, satin finish has what is referred to as a sheen - a smoother, velvet-like softness. It is closer to a matte finish, but slightly more reflective. |
| Schiele, Egon (1890-1918) An Austrian painter mentored by Gustav Klimt, who is known for his raw imagery. We offer classic art prints by Egon Schiele. |
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| Secondary Colours A color formed by mixing two primary colors in equal or equivalent quantities. |
| Single Fill A type of cotton canvas or cotton "duck" that is identified by its approximate weight per square yard, in ounces. Unlike numbered duck, which is woven with two strands of yarn in the horizontal "weft", single fill is woven with only one strand. |
| Sisley, Alfred (1839-1899) A British impressionist landscape painter who worked closely with Monet, Bazille, and Renoir. We have many classic art print by Alfred Sisley. |
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| Snap pictures Snap Frames, also known as click frames or snap-open frames, are aluminum frames for posters equipped with spring-loaded sides. These springs allow the snap frame's sides to be easily opened and closed. |
| Storyboard A graphic organizer in the form of illustrations or images displayed in sequence for the purpose of pre-visualizing a motion picture, animation, motion graphic or interactive media sequence. The storyboarding process, in the form it is known today, was developed at Walt Disney Productions during the early 1930s, after several years of similar processes being in use at Walt Disney and other animation studios. |
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Tempera paint Traditionally, tempera was made by mixing colored, powdered pigments with egg yolk, though today other water-soluble binders often replace the latter.
Tempera was one of the earliest kinds of paint, and is best known today as a children's paint because it is non-toxic and cleans up easily with water.
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| Tertiary Colours The resulting colours formed when an equal amount of a primary and a secondary color are mixed. The primary and secondary color must be beside each other on the colour wheel. For example, a mixture of 50-percent red and 50-percent magenta would result in the tertiary color of orange. |
| Tint A tint is a color created when a solid color is mixed with white, creating a lighter version of the color. In contrast, a "shade" is a color mixed with black to create a darker version of the color. In printing and color reproduction, a tint refers to a variation of a base color achieved by adding white or another lightening agent to lighten or dilute the color's intensity. Tints are commonly used to create subtle variations in color, achieve pastel shades, or adjust the brightness and saturation of colors in printed materials. Tints play a vital role in color matching, color correction, and color harmony in graphic design, illustration, and printing. |
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| Tissot, James 1836-1902: A French painter and illustrator who was known for his images of fashionably dressed women and scenes of everyday life. Choose from one of our many classic art prints. |
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| Tone Tone refers to the degree of lightness or darkness of a color, often described in terms of its brightness or value. In visual arts, tone is an essential aspect of color theory and perception, influencing the overall mood, contrast, and visual impact of an image or artwork. Tones range from light to dark along a grayscale or tonal scale, with lighter tones containing more white or lightness and darker tones containing more black or darkness. Adjusting tone can alter the perceived depth, form, and spatial relationships within an image, affecting its composition and emotional resonance. |
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| Toulouse-Lautrec, Henri 1864-1901: a French painter, printmaker, and illustrator of the post-Impressionist style, best known for his brightly colored posters. We offer many classic art prints of Toulouse-Lautrec's work. |
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TYVEK Made from polyethylene (a petroleum-based plastic) fibers flashspun to produce an unwoven, synthetic material, Tyvek (the brand name from the company DuPont) is most often used to protect building foundations before the siding has been put up. The material is strong and difficult to tear (but easily cut), and repels liquid water.
In printing, this substrate can be used much like regular paper, though it must be properly treated for any ink applications besides lithographic and flexographic. Solvent inks with too high a solvent concentration can cause the material to swell, and water-based inks may cause the image to feather or blur. Tyvek is commonly used for printing ski tags, banners, tags, and labels. |
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Van Gogh, Vincent 1853-1890: A Dutch post-Impressionist painter best known for his unique use of color, and the piece "Starry Night."
We offer many van Gogh classic art prints in our gallery.
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Viscosity Printing By creating inks with various viscosities, multiple colors can be placed on a plate at one time. These colors can be layered on top of one another (their varying viscosities mean they will not mix) or separate colors can be applied to the raised and recessed sections of the plate.
This technique is time consuming and rarely used in large print runs. Because of the delicacy of the ink application, each impression often differs greatly from the others. |
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Watercolor painting Watercolor painting is a painting method. A watercolor is the medium or the resulting artwork, in which the paints are made of pigments suspended in a water soluble vehicle. The traditional and most common support for watercolor paintings is paper; other supports include papyrus, bark papers, plastics, vellum or leather, fabric, wood, and canvas. In East Asia, watercolor painting with inks is referred to as brush painting or scroll painting. In Chinese and Japanese painting it has been the dominant medium, often in monochrome black or browns. India, Ethiopia and other countries also have long traditions. Finger painting with watercolor paints originated in China. |
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| Watermark An image or text on an artwork - usually digitally added to photographs - that identifies the piece belongs to the artist, and prevents it from being used without the artist's approval. The watermark is generally faded so the image can still be clearly seen and appreciated, but any reproduction will be marred by the design. |
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| Winsor and Newton A company that manufactures and sells art supplies, such as oil, acrylic, watercolor, and gouache paints, inks, brushes, easels, and more. |
| Woodcut A design is drawn onto a wood surface, and sharp tools are used to carve away the areas around the image. Ink is applied to the raised sections so the print remains blank in the carved areas. Different carvings may be used to add colored sections to the image. "Woodcut" may refer to both the wood plate and the print. |
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