In the context of visual arts, the term “medium” refers to the materials or techniques used by an artist to create a work of art. It can refer to the physical substances (such as oil paint, charcoal, clay, or digital tools) or the broader method of artistic creation (such as sculpture, painting, photography, or printmaking).
For example:
- Oil paint is a medium when used in painting.
- Bronze is a medium for sculpture.
- Photography or digital media are mediums in the context of modern art.
The choice of medium significantly influences the aesthetic, texture, and expression of the artwork, and it often plays a central role in how the art is experienced by its audience.