Cool art term Monday

Sorry no alliteration today. I thought it might be fun to introduce everyone to an art term or concept that they may not be familiar with. Recently, I mentioned this little classical math and art tidbit to a friend and she was not familiar. I took it for granted that most people know that stuff.

Today I chose chiaroscuro as my term to show you.

Leonardo Da Vinci "Head of a girl' study

It is defined as a technique using the contrast between a painting's or drawing's  light and dark parts for dramatic effect. This contrast can create a powerful illusion of depth.

It may seem boring but it is really about contrast and ranging the spectrum of value.

Rembrandt  "Self portrait"

This self portrait is a wonderful example of exploring all of the lights and darks, creating high contrast.

I am partial to Da Vinci's drawings that exhibit this chiaroscuro.

This Zuber papered screen reminds me of those Da Vinci drawings. Chic, no?

I challenge you to bring the term chiaroscuro into a conversation this week. But please do not make the person with a quizzical look feel dumb, just tell them about contrast.