Which technique uses thickly laid color with visible brushstrokes?

• A. Sgraffito
• B. Plein air
• C. Impasto
• D. Trompe l'oeil

Answer: (C)

Impasto is a painting technique where color is laid on thickly so the brush or knife marks stay visible on the surface. This creates a strong, tactile texture that catches light and adds a sense of depth and energy to the work. It can be done with oils or acrylics, often using a brush or palette knife to leave prominent ridges and peaks. Sgraffito involves scratching through a top layer to reveal what's underneath, which emphasizes line and subtraction rather than built-up texture. Plein air simply means painting outdoors, not a textural method. Trompe l’oeil aims to fool the eye with realistic illusion, not thick brushwork.