Kehinde Wiley Visual Elements

Question 1

Colour

Answer 1

Bright vibrant colours used in the background contrast with the dull natural colours used to paint the subject in the foreground

Realistic colours have been used to paint the subject of the painting which again contrasts with the exaggerated greens used in the leaves and vines

Question 2

Tone

Answer 2

The use of well blended tone gives a highly realistic photographic finish to the painting

The strong contrasts of highlights and darker tones used in her face, in particular her cheek bones create an illusion of depth and contribute to the photo realism of the piece

Question 3

Shape

Answer 3

The repeated use of the leaves in the background create a pattern framing the subject and adds a strong visual impact

Question 4

Line

Answer 4

The vines curving up from the bottom of the painting lead the viewers eyes up towards shantavias face

The tall hairstyle piled on top of her head creates a leading line from the top right hand corner which also leads the viewers eye towards shantavias face

Question 5

Texture

Answer 5

The oil paint is carefully blended leaving the canvas with a smooth texture and producing a photographic finish

The use of bold highlights shows the smooth texture of shantavias skin

Question 6

Pattern

Answer 6

The decorative and ornate pattern in the background of vines and flowers emphasise the subject of the painting- Shantavia, making her stand out