What does "chiaroscuro" refer to in visual art?

Chiaroscuro refers to the artistic technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth in a two-dimensional artwork. This method helps to define forms and enhance the dramatic effect within a piece, making figures and objects appear more three-dimensional. Artists use this technique to draw attention to specific areas, guide the viewer’s eye, and evoke mood through lighting.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of art, do not encapsulate the meaning of chiaroscuro. The use of abstract forms focuses on non-representational techniques, blending colors pertains to color theory and mixing, and the application of smooth texture relates to the surface quality of materials rather than the interplay of light and shadow. Chiaroscuro is specifically tied to how light and shadow interact, making it a fundamental technique in traditional painting and drawing.