CSET Art Test Practice Questions

1. Which of the following defines hue?

A) intensity of color
B) saturation
C) value
D) color

2. Which of the following describes complementary colors?

A) They are opposite from each other on a color wheel.
B) They are adjacent to each other on a color wheel.
C) They are shades of each other on a color wheel.
D) They are tints of each other on a color wheel.

3. Which of the following elements have to do with the balance of a design?

A) Rhythm, variation, unity
B) Contrast, emphasis, coordination
C) Symmetrical, asymmetrical, discordant
D) Subordination, repetition, dominance

4. Which sculpture technique is used in modeling?

A) Additive
B) Casting
C) Subtractive
D) Assemblage

5. Which of these could potentially create a hazard during printmaking?

A) Printmaking inks
B) Pigments
C) Modifiers
D) Ink reducers

CSET Art Test Answers

1. Answer: D

Hue names the color, and has nothing do to with how light or dark it is. Answer A, intensity, is a measure of how pure and strong the color is. Answer B, saturation, is the amount of brightness and is a measure of how much gray is in the color. Answer C, value, is also a name for brightness and measures how light or dark the color is.

2. Answer: A

Complementary colors are across from each other on a color wheel. The primary colors of red, blue, and yellow each have their complementary color created when the other two are mixed together. For example, a mix of red and blue creates purple, which is the complementary color of yellow.

3. Answer: C

A design may have symmetrical balance, asymmetrical balance, or discordant balance (off-balance). With symmetrical balance, the elements are very evenly distributed along the design; for instance, having a large image on the right and another large image on the left. In asymmetrical balance, the elements are not evenly matched from one side to the other, but balance is achieved by giving both sides an equal amount of visual weight. In a discordant design, the result will not have the same weight on both sides, and the result might suggest action or motion or create a sense of angst or awkwardness. Answers A, B, and D all list words that are part of the principles of design, but only answer C specifically lists elements of balance.

4. Answer: A

A sculpture that is created with clay, wax, or another type of soft material is made with an additive technique. Answer B, casting, is a form of sculpting in which a mold is created to a specific shape. Answer C, subtractive, is a technique in which material is taken away (such as in carving). Answer D, assemblage, is an additive sculptural procedure in which materials are put together.

5. Answer: B

Pigments can be a safety hazard. Pigments should never be ingested or inhaled. Chromate and cobalt can aggravate a person's skin, especially when a person has open wounds. To avoid these hazards, employ pre-made inks, a glove box, and a respirator, and wash well (including yourself and the work area). Answers A, C, and D are non-hazardous materials.