What does the term "chiaroscuro" refer to in art?

The term "chiaroscuro" refers specifically to the contrast between light and dark in art. This technique is used to create a sense of volume and three-dimensionality by manipulating light and shadow. Artists utilize chiaroscuro to achieve depth, emphasizing contours and shapes within their compositions, which enhances the realism and dramatic effect of the work. This technique has been widely used throughout art history, from the works of the Renaissance masters to modern times, and is fundamental in the depiction of figures and landscapes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the essence of chiaroscuro. For example, the use of flat shapes does not involve the interplay of light and shadow, while the notion of bright colors only pertains to color theory rather than the light-dark dynamic. Lastly, a painting style that focuses on monochrome does not align with the definition of chiaroscuro, as it inherently lacks the dramatic contrasts of light and dark that characterize this technique.