Art and Design A-Level
Chiaroscuro
What Chiaroscuro means in Art and Design A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Chiaroscuro
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
The use of strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects and figures.
The use of strong contrasts between light and dark to give the illusion of volume in modeling three-dimensional objects.
The strong contrast between light and dark to give the illusion of volume and three-dimensional form.
Topics that use Chiaroscuro
- Art and Design titles (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Developing students' knowledge, skills and understanding in art and design (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Knowledge, skills and understanding — Content for both components (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Thumbnail Sketch
- Mark-making
- Primary Source
- Foreshortening
- Gestural Drawing
- Resist Technique
- Continuous Line
- Formal Elements
Using Chiaroscuro in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
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