How to Embrace Chiaroscuro
Chiaroscuro, an art term used to describe the contrast between light and dark, is a concept that doesn't just belong in oil painting; the effect can be just as powerful in your living room as it can on a canvas. All it takes are a few key pieces and easy techniques to bring high drama to any space. This article will explore some of the possibilities.
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Things You'll Need
- Catalogs
- Internet
- Zebra pieces
- Silhouettes
- Paint
- Paint supplies
- Lighter accessories
Instructions
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Zebra stripes provide one of the most classic light-and-dark contrasts in the design world, and the beauty of zebra is that it works with virtually any style. A zebra skin rug brings instant drama to any room and a zebra print fabric makes anything from a simple upholstered bench to a classic French chair look polished and chic.
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Silhouettes, like zebra stripes, are a classic. The contrast of the dark head silhouetted against a white background or vice versa is so simple and yet so dramatic. For added drama, cluster a series of silhouettes together on a wall. You can find silhouettes at flea markets or online, but to give them a personal touch you can also make your own (or commission them).
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Silhouettes are a great way to adorn a wall, but what about giving the wall itself a little extra drama by painting it a dark color? I love a rich charcoal gray with glossy white trim. With a background like that, everything else in the room will really pop, and with a few gorgeous pieces the space will look effortlessly pulled together.
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From the walls to the floor: embrace black and white tile. Black and white checkerboard floors have such a timeless elegance--and they work in just about any room, from a foyer to a kitchen.
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Black and white art. Black and white photography can be undeniably dramatic, whether it's one piece or a whole collection. And photography isn't the only medium to consider--why not start a collection of black-and-white work? Having a unifying color scheme for a growing art collection is a simple way to ensure that everything will look good together in the end. Add some crisp white mats and black frames and you've got a gallery ready to go!
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