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Monochromatic

Definition

Monochromatic refers to artworks that use only one color or variations of one color. Instead of relying on contrasting colors, monochromatic artworks explore different shades, tints, and tones within a single hue.

Analogy

Think about taking a black-and-white photograph and then adding different filters to change its overall tone. Similarly, monochromatic artworks play with different shades of a single color to create depth and visual interest.

Related terms

Value: In art, value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. It helps artists create contrast and define forms within their compositions.

Hue: Hue is another word for 'color.' It refers to the purest form of a color, such as red, blue, or yellow.

Saturation: Saturation refers to the intensity or purity of a color. Highly saturated colors are vivid and vibrant, while desaturated colors appear more muted or grayish.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.