Visual Art Terms: S
Salon: A formal exhibition of artwork, often organized and hosted by a government or an official art academy. Historically, these exhibitions provided artists with an opportunity to showcase their work to the public and gain recognition. The most famous salon is the Salon de Paris, which was held annually from the 17th to the 19th century.
Salon Style: Refers to the traditional manner of displaying artworks in a salon, where pieces are hung closely together in a dense arrangement, often covering the walls from floor to ceiling. This method of presentation allows for a large number of works to be showcased in a limited space and encourages viewers to examine a wide variety of pieces.
Sampling: In visual art, sampling refers to the practice of incorporating pre-existing images or elements into a new artwork, often as a means of creating a commentary or drawing attention to specific ideas. This technique can be seen in many forms of contemporary art, including collage, digital art, and appropriation art.
Satire: A genre of art and literature that utilizes humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or ridicule societal norms, political figures, or other subjects. Satirical works often employ caricature, parody, or other forms of visual and verbal wit to make their point.
Scale: In the context of visual art, scale refers to the relative size or proportion of an object or scene within a composition. This can refer to the size of an artwork itself or the size of the elements within the work. Scale can be used to create visual interest, emphasize or de-emphasize certain aspects, and convey meaning or emotion.
Scene: In the context of visual art, a scene in visual art is a depiction of a specific moment or event, often involving people, objects, or a setting. Scenes can be found in a variety of art forms, including painting, photography, and film. They can range from simple, everyday moments to complex, historical events.
School of London: A term used to describe a group of British painters active in the mid-to-late 20th century, including artists such as Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, and Frank Auerbach. The artists associated with this movement are known for their figurative works and focus on the human form, often portrayed in a raw and expressive manner.
School of Paris: A diverse group of artists working in Paris in the early 20th century, particularly during the period between World War I and World War II. Many of these artists were immigrants from various countries, and the School of Paris is characterized by its internationalism and the variety of styles and movements represented, including Fauvism, Cubism, and Surrealism.
School of Rome (Scuola Romana): Was a group of Italian artists active in the early 20th century. The artists associated with this movement were influenced by a variety of modern art styles, including Cubism and Futurism, but also drew inspiration from classical and Renaissance art. The School of Rome is known for its emphasis on form and structure, as well as its exploration of the relationship between art and society.
Screenprint: Also known as silkscreening, is a printing technique that uses a mesh stencil to apply ink onto a surface. The stencil is created by blocking out areas of a fine mesh screen with a substance that is impermeable to ink, leaving open spaces for the ink to pass through. Screenprinting can be used to create a wide range of effects and is often used in the production of posters, t-shirts, and other commercial products.
Scroll: A long, narrow piece of paper, parchment, or other material that is typically used for writing or drawing. Scrolls have been used for centuries in various cultures and can be found in art forms such as calligraphy, painting, and printmaking.
Sculptor: An artist who creates three-dimensional works of art, often using materials such as stone, metal, or clay. Sculptors may work in a variety of styles and techniques, from traditional figurative sculpture to abstract and conceptual art.
Sculpture: A three-dimensional art form that can take many different forms, including statues, reliefs, and installations. Sculptures can be made from a wide variety of materials, including stone, metal, wood, and plastic, and can range in size from small, handheld objects to large public artworks.
Secondary Color: A color that is created by mixing two primary colors together. The three primary colors are red, yellow, and blue, and the three secondary colors are green (made by mixing yellow and blue), orange (made by mixing red and yellow), and purple (made by mixing red and blue). Secondary colors can be further mixed with primary colors or other secondary colors to create a wide range of hues and shades.
Secession Group: Refers to an association of artists who break away from an established art organization or movement to form their own independent group. The most famous example is the Vienna Secession, founded in 1897 by a group of Austrian artists, including Gustav Klimt, who sought to create an alternative to the conservative artistic institutions of the time. These groups generally sought to promote new and innovative art styles and foster artistic freedom.
Self-portrait: A work of art, typically a painting, drawing, or photograph, created by an artist that depicts themselves. Self-portraits can serve a variety of purposes, such as documenting the artist's appearance, showcasing technical skill, or exploring themes of identity and self-expression.
Set-dresser: A professional responsible for arranging and decorating the physical environment of a film, theater, or television production. Set-dressers work closely with the production designer and the art department to create a cohesive visual aesthetic that supports the narrative and enhances the overall production.
Setting: In the context of visual art, setting refers to the environment or background in which a scene takes place. This can include landscapes, interiors, or other locations, and can be created through a variety of artistic techniques, such as painting, photography, or digital design.
Shade: Refers to the various levels of darkness of a color, created by adding black to the original color. Shades can range from slightly darker versions of a color to nearly black. In art, using shades can create depth, contrast, and visual interest.
Shape: A fundamental element of art that refers to the two-dimensional, enclosed area created by lines, colors, or textures. Shapes can be geometric, like squares, circles, or triangles, or organic, with irregular and more fluid forms. Artists use shapes to create patterns, define space, and build the composition of their artwork.
Short: In the context of visual art, a short is a term commonly used in the film industry to refer to a brief, self-contained narrative film, typically lasting less than 30 minutes. Shorts can be used to develop a filmmaker's skills, showcase a specific technique, or explore a single idea or theme.
Shutter: In photography, the shutter is a mechanical device within a camera that controls the amount of time the camera's sensor or film is exposed to light. By adjusting the shutter speed, a photographer can control the exposure of their images, capturing motion or creating intentional blur effects.
Site-specific: Refers to works that are created for and in response to a specific location or environment. These pieces are often designed to interact with their surroundings and may be temporary or permanent installations. Site-specific art can include sculpture, murals, installations, and performances, and often encourages viewers to engage with the space in a new or unexpected way.
Sketch: A quick, informal drawing or painting that often serves as a preliminary study for a more finished work of art. Sketches can be used to capture an idea, experiment with techniques or compositions, or as a reference for later use. They can be created using various media, such as pencil, charcoal, or watercolor.
Social Construct: In the context of art, a social construct is an idea, belief, or concept that is created and maintained by society, rather than being an innate, objective truth. Artists may explore social constructs to critique or question societal norms, values, and expectations, often using their work as a means of provoking thought and discussion.
Social Realism: An art movement that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, primarily in the United States and Europe. It is characterized by its focus on depicting the everyday lives of working-class individuals, often highlighting social issues and injustices. Social Realist artists aimed to create a sense of empathy and understanding through their work, using their art as a tool for social and political commentary.
Solarisation: Also known as the Sabattier effect, is a photographic technique that involves partially reversing the tones of an image by exposing the film or print to light during the development process. This results in a unique, surreal appearance, with areas of the image appearing both positive and negative, and is often used for artistic effect.
Solvent: In the context of visual art, a solvent is a liquid substance used to dissolve or dilute other materials, such as paint, ink, or varnish. Solvents can be used to adjust the consistency and drying time of paints, clean brushes and tools, or remove unwanted marks from a work of art.
Sound Art: Sound art is a genre of contemporary art that incorporates auditory elements into its composition and presentation. This can include the use of recorded or live sounds, music, spoken words, or experimental audio techniques. Sound art can be experienced through installations, performances, or multimedia works and often explores themes of space, time, and perception.
Sound Effects: Artificially created or manipulated audio elements used in various forms of media, such as film, television, theater, and video games. They can be used to enhance a scene or create a specific atmosphere, and may include ambient noises, foley (everyday sounds), or more abstract, synthesized sounds.
Sound-on-disc: An early method of synchronizing audio with film, in which the audio component is recorded on a separate phonograph record and played back in sync with the projected film. This technology was widely used in the 1920s and 1930s before being replaced by sound-on-film systems.
Sound-on-film: A method of recording and reproducing sound in synchronization with a motion picture. In this system, the audio is recorded as an optical or magnetic track directly onto the film, allowing for a more seamless integration of sound and visuals. Sound-on-film became the standard method for synchronized sound in the film industry during the 20th century.
Special Effect: A technique used in film, television, or theater to create a visual or auditory illusion, often to depict something that would be difficult or impossible to achieve in reality. Special effects can be achieved through a combination of practical methods, such as props, makeup, and set design, or digital techniques, such as computer-generated imagery (CGI).
Spot Color: In the context of print and graphic design, spot color refers to a specific premixed ink color that is applied separately from the standard process colors (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). Spot colors are used when a specific, consistent color is required, such as for a company logo, and can provide more saturated and accurate results than mixing process colors.
Spot Varnish: Spot varnish is a print finishing technique used to apply a clear, glossy coating to specific areas of a printed piece, such as a book cover or promotional material. This selective application of varnish can enhance the appearance of the printed piece by adding contrast, depth, and a tactile quality to certain elements, such as text or images.
Stain: In the context of visual art, stain refers to the process of applying a pigmented liquid, such as ink, dye, or paint, to a surface in order to alter or enhance its color, texture, or appearance. Staining can be used as a technique in various art forms, including painting, printmaking, and woodworking.
Stencil: A thin sheet of material, such as paper, plastic, or metal, with a design or pattern cut out of it. When the stencil is placed on a surface and a medium, like paint or ink, is applied over it, the design is transferred to the surface below. Stencils are used in a variety of art and design applications, from street art to home decor.
Stereotype: In the context of art, a stereotype refers to a widely held, oversimplified, or generalized belief about a particular group or individual. Artists may explore stereotypes in their work to challenge or critique these preconceived notions and foster a greater understanding of diversity and human experience.
Still Life: A genre of art that focuses on the depiction of inanimate objects, such as flowers, fruit, or household items, arranged in a composed setting. This genre has been popular throughout art history, as it allows artists to explore various techniques, such as color, form, and composition, and can also carry symbolic meaning.
Stippling: An artistic technique that involves creating a pattern or texture by applying small, distinct dots or specks of color to a surface. This can be achieved using a variety of media, such as ink, paint, or even digital tools. Stippling can be used to create shading, depth, and visual interest in a piece of art.
Straight Photography: emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the romanticism of Pictorialism. Straight photographers aimed to capture the world as it was, without manipulation or embellishment. They often used large-format cameras and sharp focus to create highly detailed, objective images. Prominent Straight Photographers: Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, and Paul Strand.
Street Art: A form of visual art created in public spaces, often without permission. It encompasses a wide range of techniques and mediums, including graffiti, murals, stickers, and installations. Street art is often used as a means of expressing social or political commentary, as well as for aesthetic purposes.
Street Photography: A genre of photography that involves capturing candid, unposed images of people and scenes in public spaces. Street photographers often seek to capture the essence of everyday life, documenting the beauty and complexity of human experience in urban environments.
Strobe: A type of photographic or lighting equipment that emits a brief, intense burst of light. Strobes are often used in photography to freeze motion, as the brief flash duration can capture sharp images of moving subjects.
Style: In art, style refers to the distinctive visual characteristics and techniques used by an individual artist or group of artists. This can include elements such as brushstroke, color palette, composition, and subject matter. An artist's style can be influenced by various factors, such as historical movements, personal experiences, and cultural influences.
Subconscious (in technical use, Unconscious): In the context of art, the subconscious (or unconscious) refers to the part of the mind that operates beyond our conscious awareness. Artists may use techniques, such as automatic drawing or writing, to tap into the subconscious and access deeper levels of creativity, intuition, and emotion.
Subject Matter: Subject matter refers to the primary focus or topic of a work of art. This can include a wide range of themes, such as landscapes, portraits, historical events, or abstract concepts.
Subjective Photography: Subjective photography is a style of photography that emphasizes the personal, emotional, and psychological response of the photographer to the subject matter. This can involve experimenting with unconventional techniques, such as distortion, abstraction, or multiple exposures, to evoke a particular mood or feeling.
Sublime: In art, the sublime refers to a feeling of awe or overwhelming greatness that is often associated with nature, vastness, or the infinite. Artists may use various techniques, such as scale, composition, or color, to evoke the sublime and create a sense of transcendence or spiritual experience.
Suprematism: Suprematism is an abstract art movement that emerged in Russia in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, such as squares, circles, and rectangles, arranged in a non-objective, non-representational manner. Suprematist artists aimed to create a universal language of form that transcended national and cultural boundaries.
Surrealism: a 20th century art movement that originated in France in the 1920s. Artists of this movement sought to explore the unconscious mind and the irrational, often using dream-like imagery and unexpected juxtapositions in their work. Surrealist art often features strange and unsettling scenes that challenge our understanding of reality. Prominent Surrealist artists: Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, and Max Ernst.
Surrealist Photography: emerged in the 1920s and 1930s as part of the broader Surrealist movement in art and literature. Surrealist photographers sought to create images that were dreamlike and irrational, often using techniques such as photomontage and double exposure to create unexpected juxtapositions and strange, otherworldly effects.
Symbol: A visual element that has a specific meaning, often representing an idea, concept, or emotion. Symbols can be used to add layers of meaning to a work of art and help convey a message or theme. Some common examples of symbols in art include a dove to symbolize peace, a heart to symbolize love, or a skull to symbolize death.
Symbolism: An art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by the use of symbols and metaphors to convey ideas, emotions, and spiritual or mystical experiences. Symbolist artists often sought to express inner thoughts and feelings rather than depict the external world realistically.
Synaesthesia: A condition in which a person experiences a blending of senses, such as seeing colors when hearing music or tasting flavors when touching certain textures. In art, synaesthesia can refer to the use of one sensory experience to evoke another, such as using color to convey a particular emotion or sound.
Synthetic: In art, synthetic refers to the process of combining multiple materials, techniques, or styles to create a new work. This can involve collage, assemblage, or other forms of mixed media.
Synthetic Cubism: A style of art that developed in the early 20th century, characterized by the use of collage and other techniques to create layered, fragmented images. Unlike Analytic Cubism, which focused on breaking down forms into geometric shapes, Synthetic Cubism sought to build up forms through the use of multiple materials and textures.