MFA Studio Art and Painting Techniques

Question 1

Which painting medium uses pigment suspended in linseed or walnut oil, allowing extended blending time on canvas?

Accepted Answer

Oil paint

Answer

Oil paint uses drying oils as a binder, which slows drying and allows artists to blend colors on the canvas for extended periods.

Question 2

In color theory, what term describes colors that sit directly opposite each other on the color wheel?

Accepted Answer

Complementary colors

Answer

Complementary colors are directly opposite each other on the color wheel and create maximum contrast when placed side by side.

Question 3

What printmaking technique involves drawing on a flat limestone or metal plate with a greasy medium and printing via oil-water repulsion?

Accepted Answer

Lithography

Answer

Lithography exploits the immiscibility of oil and water: the greasy drawing repels water but accepts ink, transferring the image to paper.

Question 4

Which element of art refers to the perceived surface quality or 'feel' of a work — whether rough, smooth, or bumpy?

Accepted Answer

Texture

Answer

Texture describes the surface quality of a work, which can be tactile (physical) or visual (implied through technique).

Question 5

In perspective drawing, what is a 'vanishing point'?

Accepted Answer

The point at which parallel lines appear to converge on the horizon

Answer

A vanishing point is the location on the horizon line where parallel lines in a scene appear to meet, creating the illusion of depth.

MFA - Master of Fine Arts Practice Test