Painting Vocabulary Quiz
12 questions on painting terms: canvas, palette, brushstroke, hue and the language of fine art. B1–B2 level.
This quiz focuses on how the target vocabulary for Painting is actually used in context at B1–B2 level, rather than testing bare definitions. Correct answers you will need to identify include terms such as canvas, palette, brushstroke, hue and easel, each embedded in a full example sentence so you have to judge meaning from context, not just recognise an isolated word.
Working through all 12 questions and checking the explanations in the FAQ below is a quick way to spot any terms you are still unsure of. Revisiting the quiz again after a day or two, rather than only once, is one of the most reliable ways to move new vocabulary from passive recognition into words you can use confidently yourself in speaking and writing.
Keep building your painting vocabulary.
Painting Vocabulary — FAQ
What is a canvas?
A canvas is a strong, woven cloth, usually stretched tight over a wooden frame, that artists paint on. It provides a firm, slightly textured surface that holds paint well and is especially common for oil and acrylic painting.
What is a palette?
A palette is the flat surface, often a board or tray, on which a painter places and mixes their colours. The word is also used for the particular range of colours an artist chooses to use in a work.
What is a brushstroke?
A brushstroke is a single mark made by dragging a loaded brush across the surface. The size, direction and texture of brushstrokes affect the look and mood of a painting, and many artists are recognised by their distinctive style.
What does 'hue' mean?
Hue is another word for a pure colour, such as red, green or blue, before it is made lighter, darker or duller. Understanding hue helps artists describe and mix colours accurately.
What is an easel?
An easel is a stand, usually made of wood or metal, that holds a canvas or board upright while the artist works. It keeps the surface steady and at a comfortable angle for painting.
What is the difference between oil and watercolour paint?
Oil paint is made by mixing pigment with oil; it dries slowly, allowing blending and rich, deep colours. Watercolour is pigment mixed with water; it dries quickly and is usually thin and transparent, often used on paper.
What is a portrait?
A portrait is a painting, drawing or photograph of a person, especially one that focuses on the face and expression. A good portrait aims to capture not only the likeness but also something of the subject's character.
What is a landscape painting?
A landscape painting shows natural scenery such as mountains, fields, rivers or skies. The land usually fills most of the picture, and artists often use it to explore light, weather and a sense of space.
What is a still life?
A still life is a painting of arranged inanimate objects, such as fruit, flowers, bottles or everyday items. Because the objects do not move, the artist can study shape, colour, light and shadow in detail.
What are primary colours?
The primary colours in painting are red, yellow and blue. They cannot be made by mixing other colours, but mixing them together in different combinations can produce a wide range of other colours, called secondary and tertiary colours.