glossary

Actual texture is found in every work that is in three dimensions and is dependent on the materials (the medium) used. In architecture it refers to the surface textures (siding, brick, wood, stone, etc.) or through rustication. Sculptures that have a subject tend to emphasize implied textures more than actual textures, but because of the medium those textures still exist and are an important aspect of those works. Nonobjective sculptures tend to feature actual textures more prominently. While works in two dimensions do not typically feature actual textures that are significant, there are exceptions. Mosaics, stained glass, collages, mixed media, and paintings that utilize impasto all have actual textures that are important considerations within those works.