Why do artists use texture?

We've talked about and made texture. Now, why use it in our art?

Texture creates INTEREST. It makes us look at something more. Our eyes like to look at something that one of our other senses (touch) can relate to.

Let's look at some texture in art.

There's ACTUAL texture.





And IMPLIED texture.







Imagine this art without texture. Do you think it would be as interesting?

What is "Realistic" and what is "Abstract" in art?

We will concentrate on PORTRAITS and SELF-PORTRAITS, though real and abstract can be landscapes, still life, etc...

"Wow, that looks real!"

I've bet you've heard someone say that about art before. If it "looks real", then it's probably a style called Realism.

Realism tries to copy what we see without any filters or add-ons...Think about how important that was before people had cameras!

Here are some examples of portraits in a realistic style.

Self-Portrait by Chuck Close

The Girl With a Pearl Earring, Johannes Vermeer

Self Portrait, Vincent van Gogh