Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What is an armature in the context of sculpture?

1. A mold used for casting ceramic items

2. A support framework for modeling material

3. A kiln setting for firing ceramics

4. A mixture of clay and glaze

The correct answer is: A support framework for modeling material

In the context of sculpture, an armature serves as a support framework for modeling material. This framework provides stability and structure to a sculptural piece, especially when the chosen medium, such as clay or wax, is not capable of standing on its own or requires additional support to maintain its form. The armature can be composed of various materials, including metal, wood, or other sturdy substances, depending on the size and intended outcome of the sculpture. By using an armature, artists can create more complex and dynamic shapes while ensuring that the overall composition remains stable throughout the artistic process. This foundation allows for flexibility and creativity in the sculpting process, enabling the artist to build upon it with their modeling material effectively.