NCERT Class 9 Arts Madhurima: Chapter 15 — Mediums and Techniques in Visual Art
This chapter, "Techniques in Visual Art," from NCERT Class 9 Arts Madhurima, introduces students to the diverse world of artistic mediums, tools, and processes. It highlights how the choice of materials has influenced artistic expression throughout history, from ancient cave paintings to modern digital art. The chapter emphasizes the importance of artists' knowledge and advanced techniques in preserving artworks over millennia. It defines 'medium' as the materials, tools, and processes used in creating visual art. Through a conversation, students explore various mediums like watercolors on paper, painting on canvas, sculpture, ceramic art, and charcoal sketching, encouraging them to consider different artistic approaches and surfaces. This chapter aims to deepen students' understanding of artistic practices and their historical significance, fostering an appreciation for the skills and knowledge involved in visual art creation.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 9 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Madhurima |
| Chapter | Chapter 15 — Mediums and Techniques in Visual Art |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 373 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the definition and importance of 'medium' in visual art.
- Recognize how materials and techniques have evolved throughout art history.
- Identify various mediums and tools used in different art forms like painting, sculpture, and digital art.
- Appreciate the knowledge and skills artists employ in their work.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Medium | The materials, tools, and processes used in making visual artwork. |
| Sketching | Making a rough drawing or outline. |
| Journaling | Keeping a written record of events, thoughts, or experiences. |
| Pigments | Substances used for coloring, especially in paints. |
| Mural | A painting or other work of art executed directly on the surface of a wall. |
| Sculpture | The art of making three-dimensional forms, especially by carving stone or wood or by casting metal or plaster. |
| Ceramic | Relating to or made from clay fired at high temperatures. |
| Kiln | A furnace or oven for drying, baking, or firing pottery, bricks, etc. |
| Pottery | Vessels or objects made from clay and fired. |
| Charcoal | A black porous carbonaceous material, obtained by heating wood or other organic matter in the absence of air, used as a fuel or for drawing. |
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Practice questions
- What is meant by the term 'medium' in visual art? Answer: The 'medium' refers to the materials, tools, and processes used in making visual artwork.
- Name two ancient art techniques mentioned in the chapter. Answer: Pottery and metal casting techniques are mentioned as ancient art techniques.
- What is a wall mural? Answer: A wall mural is a painting or other work of art executed directly on the surface of a wall.
- What is a kiln used for in ceramic art? Answer: A kiln is used for firing pottery and other ceramic artworks at high temperatures.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main focus of Chapter 15, 'Techniques in Visual Art'?
Chapter 15 focuses on the various materials, tools, and processes (mediums) used in visual art, and their historical significance.
What does the term 'medium' mean in the context of art?
In visual art, 'medium' refers to the materials, tools, and processes an artist uses to create a work.
Can you give examples of different art mediums mentioned?
Examples include watercolors on paper, painting on canvas, sculpture, ceramic art, and charcoal sketching.
Why is understanding art techniques important?
Understanding techniques helps appreciate the artist's skill, the preservation of artworks, and the evolution of art throughout history.
What are some ancient art techniques discussed?
The chapter mentions ancient pottery and metal casting techniques that are over 5,000 years old.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 9 Arts — Madhurima — Chapter 15 — Mediums and Techniques in Visual Art. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.