What aspect of art does "texture" refer to?

Texture in art refers specifically to the visual quality and feel of a surface. It encompasses both the tactile aspects that can be felt physically, such as roughness or smoothness, and the visual representation of those qualities that can be perceived through sight alone. Artists often create texture using various techniques, such as brush strokes in painting or layering in sculpture, to evoke a sense of depth and dimensionality in their work.

This concept is crucial for enhancing the overall sensory experience of a piece, allowing viewers to engage with the artwork on a tactile level, even if they only experience it visually. Recognizing texture is essential for appreciating how materials interact within various art forms, from painting and drawing to sculpture and textiles. The other options focus on different fundamental elements of art, such as color, emotional tone, and composition, which do not pertain directly to texture.