Positive space is a term used to describe the overall area of a painting. This includes the canvas and all of the negative space around it. The positive space of a painting allows the viewer to see all of the objects within, while negative space…

Asymmetrical balance, also known as asymmetric balance, is a term used in art that describes the visual weight given to one side of an artwork.  In other words, asymmetrical balance is the distribution of the emphasis between two parts of an image. Asymmetrical balance can…

Scale is the relationship between two objects, one on top of the other. The relationship can be relative to size, distance, or dimension. The composition of a painting or drawing is often called scale because it involves a comparison between objects that are arranged in…

Simplicity in art and composition can be defined as the use of a minimum number of elements to create the greatest visual impact. To achieve simplicity, artists must understand the principles of design and how they can be used to convey meaning through their work….

 radial balance is the relationship between the elements of a composition in which each element has equal weight or importance. Radial balance is an important concept for art and composition, especially for students who are studying the visual arts. It is a way to understand…

Tenebrism is a form of artistic expression that uses dramatic lighting, often to create a sense of darkness or gloom. It is an extension of the Italian word tenebrae, which means shadows. The term was coined by the French playwright Jean-Baptiste Racine in 1667 as…

Agitprop (from the Russian агитпроп, an abbreviation of agitation and propaganda), or agitprop art, is a style of visual art commonly associated with socialist realism, Soviet propaganda, and communist politics. Agitprop often has a political purpose: to influence popular opinion and promote leftist ideas. It…

Video art is a genre of art that uses films, video recordings and video projections as the creative or expressive medium. Video art is often site-specific, and can be installed, exhibited, viewed and recorded in different places. Video art began with the invention of the…