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

Gesso is a white preparatory ground applied to canvas, wood, or paper to create a suitable surface for paint adhesion and to reduce absorbency.

Question 2

In ceramics, what does 'bisque firing' accomplish?

Accepted Answer

It hardens unfired clay into a porous state ready for glazing

Answer

Bisque firing is the first firing of clay, burning off organic materials and hardening the piece to a porous state that readily absorbs glaze.

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

Sizing, typically with rabbit skin glue or acrylic medium, seals canvas fibers so that oil from paint does not contact and degrade the fabric over time.

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

Glazing involves applying thin, transparent layers of paint over dried underlayers, allowing light to pass through and reflect back, creating luminous depth.

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 line of action is a single, often curved, line that runs through the figure's core to capture its primary gesture, movement, and energy.

MFA - Master of Fine Arts Practice Test

MFA - Master of Fine Arts Practice Test

MFA Studio Art and Painting Techniques 3