Grade 9 Art - Day 29

In our study of visual art terminology, our next focus word is Contrast.

From our text, ArtTalk, we learn that contrast is used to create a focal point by placing an element into your work that contrasts with the rest of the work in that area.

For an example of contrast, let's look at Daniel in the Lion's Den, c. 1615, by Peter Paul Rubens.

The contrasts at work in this piece are:

• Daniel's smooth skin compared to the rough rock
• Daniel's skin compared to the fur of the lions
• Daniel's body position is tight and "closed" whereas the lions are moving and active
• The colour of Daniel's skin is bright and almost glowing, angelic even.  The colours surrounding him are earth-toned and golden.  
• Even the red robe that Daniel sits upon is a complete contrast to other elements in the painting.