What is the primary purpose of texture in visual arts?

The primary purpose of texture in visual arts is to provide a tactile quality to the artwork. Texture refers to the surface quality of a piece of art, which can be perceived through touch or visually implied through techniques such as brushwork, layering, and material choice. Incorporating texture adds depth and interest to an artwork, inviting viewers to engage more actively by experiencing the piece not just visually, but also conceptually, as different textures can evoke different feelings and sensations.

By illustrating various textures, artists can enhance their creative expression, allowing them to create works that feel more alive and dynamic, stimulating the viewer's imagination in ways that a flat surface would not. While aspects like emotional messaging and visual patterns can be elements influenced by texture, the fundamental role of texture is its ability to create that tangible, sensory quality in art.