Contrast

What is contrast?

Answer explanation

Whereas variety describes small differences within a design, contrast describes larger differences in the elements of a design.

Why do artists create contrasts in their work?

Answer explanation

Filmmakers, musicians, authors, and dancers all use contrast in their work. They may use it to add interest, to change the pace, or to develop or underscore a mood.

List six broad categories of what visual artists often contrast in their art?

Answer explanation

Contrasting Materials

Line Contrasts

Using Shape, Form, and Size

Contrasting Dark and Light

Color Contrasts

Contrasting Textures

Contrasts of Time and Style

Contrasting Ideas

What are some ways to create color contrasts?

Answer explanation

They might place warm colors next to cool colors, or bold, vibrant colors next to soft, muted ones. By placing complementary colors side by side, artists can create a powerful effect.

What special photographic process did Minor White use in Toolshed in Cemetery  to create high contrasts?

Answer explanation

Special infrared negatives are what Minor White used to create the mysterious contrasts in his photograph.

What subjects was Rosa Bonheur passionate about painting?

Answer explanation

She then began an independent focus on her lifelong passion: serious, large-scale animal studies.

Why were plaques such as the one created by the Benin artists?

Describe three different textures on this plaque.

Answer explanation

Only the oba could commission brass or bronze works, and plaques such as this one were created to record the life and ceremonies of the oba.

What contrasts in shape can you find in this work?

Answer explanation

For instance, they might contrast rounded shapes with angular ones, or complex organic forms with simple geometric ones.

What types of contrast did the artists of these works use?

Answer explanation

Color

Shape

How did Bonheur use contrast to direct our attention?

Answer explanation

Color

Value Contrast