Visual Art Terms: R
RGB: An acronym for Red, Green, Blue, which are the primary colors of light. In digital art and design, RGB is used to create and display colors on screens or other electronic displays.
Rayograph: A photographic technique invented by artist Man Ray in which objects are placed directly onto photographic paper and exposed to light. This creates unique, abstract compositions that are often highly detailed.
Readymade: A term coined by artist Marcel Duchamp to describe ordinary objects that are selected and presented as works of art. The concept of the readymade challenges traditional notions of what can be considered art and often highlights the role of the artist in the creative process.
Realism: An art movement that emerged in the mid-19th century that emphasizes the accurate representation of subjects and objects in art. Realism often depicts everyday life and ordinary people and objects in a naturalistic style.
Relics: Objects or items that are considered to be sacred or have historical or cultural significance. In art, relics are often depicted in religious or spiritual contexts and can include artifacts, bones, or other objects that are believed to have special powers or connections to the divine.
Register: In printmaking, register refers to the process of aligning multiple colors or layers of ink to create a final image. It is important to achieve precise register to ensure a clean, accurate print.
Relief: A type of sculpture in which the figures or forms are raised above the surface of the material. Relief sculpture can be either low relief (also called bas-relief) or high relief, depending on the degree to which the figures project from the surface.
Renaissance: A period of European history that spanned from the 14th to the 17th century, characterized by a renewed interest in classical art, literature, and culture. It is often considered a period of great artistic, intellectual, and cultural achievement.
Rendering: The process of creating a visual representation or depiction of an object or scene. In art, rendering often refers to the use of shading and other techniques to create a realistic or lifelike image.
Replica: A copy or reproduction of an original artwork or object. Replicas can be created using a variety of techniques, such as casting, 3D printing, or painting.
Representation: The act of depicting or portraying something in a visual or artistic form. In art, representation can refer to the depiction of a subject or object in a realistic or abstract form.
Reportage: A type of journalism or documentary that involves reporting on real-life events or situations. In art, reportage can refer to the depiction of real-life events or scenes in a visual form.
Reportage Painting: A style of painting that combines elements of reportage and realism to depict real-life events or scenes in a painterly, expressive style.
Representational: A term used to describe art that depicts objects or scenes in a realistic or lifelike manner. Representational art often aims to accurately represent the physical appearance of objects or subjects.
Resin: A material that is often used in sculpture and casting to create a durable, hard surface. Resin can be made from a variety of materials and can be tinted or colored to create a wide range of effects.
Rococo: A style of art and architecture that emerged in Europe in the 18th century, characterized by ornate decoration, asymmetry, and a focus on lightness and delicacy.
Romanticism: An art movement that emerged in the late 18th century that emphasized emotion, imagination, and individualism. Romantic art often depicted dramatic scenes or landscapes in a highly expressive or stylized manner.
Rotogravure Printing: A type of intaglio printing process in which a design is etched onto a metal plate, which is then used to print onto paper or other materials. Rotogravure printing is often used for high-volume printing, such as in magazines, catalogs, or packaging.