NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti: Chapter 16 — Still Life in Colour
This chapter introduces the concept of 'Still Life' in art, tracing its origins from ancient Indian art where objects were symbolic elements within larger compositions. It highlights the shift around the 16th century when objects themselves became the primary subject, emphasizing the artist's skill in rendering them three-dimensionally and with a sense of life. The chapter explains that still life extends beyond painting to photography and sculpture, and its modern application in advertising. It also includes an activity guiding students on arranging a still life composition by selecting objects that represent identity and belonging, considering varying materials, colours, sizes, and dimensions, and choosing a complementary backdrop to enhance focus on the objects. This chapter helps students understand a significant genre in visual arts and develop compositional skills.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti |
| Chapter | Chapter 16 — Still Life in Colour |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 427 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the historical evolution of still life in Indian art.
- Identify objects as the main subject in still life compositions.
- Recognize the application of still life in various art forms like painting, photography, and sculpture.
- Learn principles of visual arrangement for a still life composition.
- Develop skills in selecting objects based on personal identity and aesthetic qualities.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Still Life | An artwork depicting inanimate objects as the main subject. |
| Composition | The arrangement of elements within an artwork. |
| Symbolic | Representing something else, often an abstract idea. |
| Three-dimensional | Having or appearing to have length, width, and depth. |
| Contour | The outline or shape of an object. |
| Texture | The feel, appearance, or consistency of a surface or a substance. |
| Backdrop | A painted or decorated cloth representing scenery, hung at the back of a stage or studio. |
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Practice questions
- What is the main difference between how objects were depicted in ancient Indian art and in still life art? Answer: In ancient Indian art, objects were usually symbolic and part of a larger composition, whereas in still life, objects themselves are the main subject.
- When did objects start becoming the main subject of artworks? Answer: Around the 16th century.
- Besides painting, in what other art forms can still life compositions be created? Answer: Photographs and sculptures.
- What are the key considerations when choosing objects for a still life arrangement? Answer: Objects should vary in materials, colours, textures, sizes, and dimensions, and convey personal identity or belonging.
- What is the purpose of the backdrop in a still life arrangement? Answer: The backdrop should complement the objects and not distract from them, helping to keep the objects in focus.
Frequently asked questions
What is 'Still Life' in art?
Still life is an artwork where inanimate objects are the main subject, focusing on their form, colour, and texture.
When did still life art become popular?
Objects began to be the main subject of artworks around the 16th century, leading to the development of still life as a genre.
Can still life be created in forms other than painting?
Yes, still life compositions can also be created as photographs and sculptures.
What is the importance of choosing objects for a still life?
Objects are chosen to convey identity and belonging, and should vary in material, colour, size, and dimension to create visual interest.
How should a backdrop be chosen for a still life?
The backdrop should be a single colour that complements the objects and helps them stand out, rather than distracting from them.
What skills are developed by creating a still life?
Students develop skills in visual arrangement, composition, observation of form and colour, and understanding the aesthetic qualities of objects.
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Arts — Kriti — Chapter 16 — Still Life in Colour. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.