Visual Art Terms: I
Iconography: Iconography is the study of the symbolism and meaning of images, particularly in religious or mythological contexts. Iconography involves the analysis of the symbols, colors, and composition of an image, as well as its historical and cultural context. It can be used to understand the meaning and significance of artworks, religious artifacts, and other objects.
Identity Politics: Identity politics is a political and social movement that focuses on the experiences and perspectives of particular groups, such as women, people of color, or LGBTQ+ individuals. Identity politics seeks to challenge dominant power structures and promote social justice and equality. It aims to empower marginalized groups and give them a voice in political and social discourse.
Illusion: An illusion is a false or misleading perception of reality. Illusions can be created through art, magic, or other means, and they often challenge our understanding of what is real and what is not. Optical illusions, for example, can create the impression of movement, depth, or other visual effects that are not actually present.
Impasto: Impasto is a painting technique in which thick layers of paint are applied to the canvas, often with visible brushstrokes or texture. Impasto can create a three-dimensional effect and can add depth and richness to a painting. The technique is often associated with the work of artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Willem de Kooning.
Impressionism: A 19th century art movement that originated in France in the 1860s. Artists of this movement sought to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere in nature, often painting en plein air (outdoors) to observe the changing light. They used loose brushwork and vivid colors to create a sense of movement and immediacy in their paintings. Prominent Impressionist artists: Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas.
Improvisation: A creative process in which artists make up or improvise their work as they go, often without a preconceived plan. Improvisation is often associated with jazz music, but it is also used in other art forms such as dance and theater.
In situ: A Latin term meaning "in place." In art, in situ refers to works that are created or installed in a specific location or context, often in response to the site's unique features or history.
Inclined Plane: A geometric form that is slanted or angled, such as a ramp or a hill. Inclined planes can be used in art and design to create a sense of movement or visual interest.
Industrial Design: The process of designing and creating products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Industrial design often involves the use of technology and materials to create innovative and efficient products.
Information Age: A period of history characterized by the widespread use of computers, the internet, and other digital technologies to store, process, and share information. The Information Age has had a profound impact on art, culture, and society as a whole.
Ink: A fluid or paste used for writing, drawing, or printing. Ink can be made from a variety of materials, including plant extracts, oils, and synthetic compounds.
Installation: A type of contemporary art that involves creating an immersive or site-specific environment. Installations often use a variety of materials and techniques to transform a space into a unique and engaging experience.
Internet Art: Art created for or distributed through the internet. Internet art can take many forms, including websites, social media accounts, and digital installations.
Institutional Critique: A form of art that seeks to challenge or expose the power structures and assumptions of the art world and other institutions. Institutional critique often involves questioning the role of the artist, the gallery system, and the art market.
Intaglio: A printmaking technique in which a design is incised or engraved onto a metal or plastic plate, and then inked and printed onto paper. Intaglio prints often have a highly detailed and precise quality.
Interior Design: The art and science of designing and decorating the interior spaces of buildings. Interior design can involve the selection of furniture, lighting, colors, and other elements to create a cohesive and functional space.
International Style: A modernist architectural style that emerged in the 1920s and emphasized simplicity, clean lines, and the use of modern materials such as glass and steel. International Style buildings often have a stark, minimalist appearance.
Intertitle: A printed caption or title that appears in a film or video between scenes or shots. Intertitles are often used to convey dialogue, narration, or other information to the viewer.