Two-dimensional art, often simply referred to as 2D art, is a form of artwork that has a height and width, but no depth. As such, it is typically created on a two-dimensional surface, such as a canvas or paper. 2D art can take on many forms, including painting, drawing, printmaking, and photography to name a few. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth look into all things 2D art, so you can better understand the types, principles, and techniques involved in creating art in two dimensions.
What Is 2D Art?
2D art is any artwork that is created using only two dimensions – height and width. This form of artwork consists of works such as paintings, drawings, prints, photography, and other art forms that are realized on surfaces such as canvas, paper, or fabric. 2D art does not incorporate depth and does not involve a third dimension. Therefore, sculptures and anything involving three-dimensional objects cannot be considered 2D art.
Types of 2D Art
2D art can take the form of a variety of different mediums, the most common being painting, drawing, printmaking, and photography.
Painting: Paintings are works in which pigment is mixed with a binder (oil, acrylic, etc.), and then applied, manipulated, and blended on a two-dimensional surface such as canvas or paper.
Drawing: Drawings are works that involve the art of creating images and designs using a variety of mark-making materials, such as charcoal, graphite, pen and ink, and more.
Printmaking: Printmaking is a form of art created using printing techniques such as engravings, woodcuts, lithographs, and silkscreens.
Photography: Photography is an art form in which pictures of living creatures and objects are taken using cameras to capture the image.
Principles of 2D Art
In addition to understanding the different types of 2D art, it’s important to know and recognize the basic principles of 2D art, which include the following:
Line: Line is a mark made on a two-dimensional surface that can be thick or thin and long or short. Lines are used to create structure and form in 2D art.
Color: Color can be used to create emotion or convey a feeling or mood within a piece of 2D art. Colors can be used to create contrast or emphasize certain features within a work.
Shape and Form: Shapes and forms are two-dimensional visual elements that create a sense of structure. These elements can be used to create a sense of balance, order, and rhythm within a piece.
Texture: Textures areural elements that are created using different materials and mark-making techniques. Textures can help create visual interest and add dimension to a work of art.
Value: Value is a visual element that is used to create dimension in an artwork. Value is used to show the lightness or darkness of a color or to contour shapes and forms.
Space: Space is the area or emptiness within a piece of art and can be used to create a sense of distance, depth, and perspective.
Techniques of 2D Art
Within the world of 2D art, there are many different techniques that artists can use to create their works. These techniques include blending, layering, mark-making, and more. We’ll provide detailed descriptions of the various 2D art techniques below.
Blending: Blending is a technique used to create smooth transitions between colors. This effect can be done using various mediums such as watercolors, charcoals, and oil paints.
Layering: Layering is when an artist builds up layers of color or texture to create a desired effect. This technique can be used when creating paintings, prints, and drawings.
Mark Making: Mark making is when an artist uses a variety of tools and techniques to create marks on a two-dimensional surface. These marks can be used to create texture, depth, and form in a work.
Scumbling: Scumbling is a technique used to create color variations and texture. This can be done by lightly dragging a paintbrush loaded with paint over an area.
Stippling: Stippling is a technique used to create texture and depth. This is done by dotting the surface with small dots of paint or ink in order to create a desired effect.
Sgraffito: Sgraffito is a technique where an artist uses a sharp tool to scratch away layers of paint to reveal the base color beneath. This technique is used in printmaking and can be used to create texture and depth.
By understanding the different types, principles, and techniques of 2D art, you can better appreciate the beauty and complexity of two-dimensional art. Whether you are a painter, printmaker, photographer, or any other type of artist, understanding the fundamentals of 2D art is essential in creating compelling works of art.
