• Introduction
• Line
• Shape
• Texture
• Color

Introduction

Early humans over 25,000 years ago painted pictures on cave walls and shaped beautiful figurines. Ever since, people have expressed themselves through the visual arts. When we look at paintings, drawings, and sculptures, we see the world differently — sometimes more clearly, sometimes more honestly, and other times in simply disturbing ways. In all cases, however, the visual arts have the power to transform us and enhance our lives.

Artists think carefully about their work, and so should we: Great art is as much a product of skillful craftsmanship as it is about insightful imagination. By learning about the fundamentals of art, we can gain the point of view of the artists and appreciate the visual arts more fully.