MFA Studio Art and Painting Techniques 3

Question 1

What is a 'gesso' ground in painting?

Accepted Answer

A white preparatory coating applied to a support surface before painting

Answer

A final varnish coat applied over oil paintings

Answer

A medium mixed with paint to increase transparency

Answer

A framing technique for finished canvases

Question 2

In ceramics, what does 'bisque firing' accomplish?

Accepted Answer

It hardens unfired clay into a porous state ready for glazing

Answer

It applies a glossy glaze to the surface of clay

Answer

It vitrifies the clay body to its final hardness

Answer

It removes all moisture before the piece is thrown on the wheel

Question 3

What is the purpose of 'sizing' a canvas before painting?

Accepted Answer

To seal the canvas fibers and prevent oil from rotting the support

Answer

To stretch the canvas tightly over the frame

Answer

To add texture to the painting surface

Answer

To measure the canvas for framing

Question 4

Which term describes the technique of applying thin, transparent layers of paint over a dry underlayer to modify color and create luminosity?

Accepted Answer

Glazing

Answer

Alla prima

Answer

Impasto

Answer

Scumbling

Question 5

In figure drawing, what is the 'line of action'?

Accepted Answer

A single curved line capturing the overall movement and gesture of the figure

Answer

The outline contour of the figure's silhouette

Answer

The central axis of the human body from head to feet

Answer

The line connecting the shoulders and the hips

Question 6

What distinguishes 'relief printmaking' from 'intaglio printmaking'?

Accepted Answer

In relief, ink sits on the raised surface; in intaglio, ink sits in recessed grooves

Answer

Relief uses stencils; intaglio uses a flatbed press

Answer

Relief is done on fabric; intaglio is done on paper

Answer

Relief requires acid to etch the plate; intaglio does not