Learn to see, understand, and talk about art. Guides for beginners and curious minds exploring visual literacy.
14 articles
Discover the science and practice of art therapy. Learn how creating and viewing art reduces stress, processes trauma, and supports mental health — even if you have no artistic training.
Make the most of your next museum visit with practical tips on planning, etiquette, and how to engage with art. A beginner-friendly guide to enjoying galleries without feeling lost.
Explore the major materials of sculpture, from ancient marble and bronze casting to modern found objects and industrial materials. Learn how material choice shapes meaning, technique, and the viewer's experience.
Discover the fascinating world of printmaking, from Dürer's woodcuts to Warhol's screen prints. Learn how artists create multiple originals through linocut, etching, lithography, and screen printing techniques.
Master the building blocks of drawing, from contour lines and cross-hatching to one-point perspective. Learn the techniques that every great artist started with and how to develop your own drawing skills.
Learn how artists arrange visual elements to create compelling paintings. Master the rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and other composition techniques used by the masters.
Understand the art of oil painting, from Van Eyck's luminous glazes to Van Gogh's thick impasto. Learn why oil paint has been the dominant medium for five centuries and how its unique properties work.
Learn the essential techniques of watercolor painting, from wet-on-wet washes to glazing and lifting. Discover why watercolor is both the most accessible and the most demanding painting medium.
Discover how art journaling and sketchbooks can unlock your creativity, even if you cannot draw. Learn practical techniques, materials, and approaches for building a rewarding creative practice.
Learn how to start collecting art without spending a fortune. From affordable prints and emerging artists to thrift store finds and art fairs, discover practical strategies for building a meaningful collection.
Learn how artists use color theory to create mood, depth, and visual impact. Understand warm vs cool colors, complementary contrasts, and how to read color in any painting.
Understand the distinct eras of Modern vs. Contemporary art, covering timelines, styles, and how artists mirror our changing world.