Chiaroscuro

Chiaroscuro is an art technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of depth and volume in a painting or drawing. Originating during the Renaissance, it helps to highlight shapes and figures, giving them a more three-dimensional appearance. By manipulating light and shadow, artists can evoke mood, drama, and a realistic feel in their work. Famous artists like Caravaggio and Rembrandt used chiaroscuro effectively, making their paintings compelling and lifelike. The term itself comes from the Italian words for "light" (chiaro) and "dark" (scuro).