"Dissonance" (artwork)

"Dissonance" in artwork refers to an intentional use of conflicting or jarring elements—such as mismatched colors, shapes, or themes—that create a sense of tension or unease. Artists employ dissonance to challenge viewers, provoke thought, or evoke emotional responses by disrupting visual harmony or conventional expectations. This technique can highlight complexity, contrast, or critique within the piece, encouraging a deeper engagement with its underlying message. Ultimately, dissonance serves as a powerful tool to convey ambiguity, instability, or provoke reflection on societal or personal issues.