What does actual texture refer to in art?

Actual texture in art refers to a tactile quality that can be physically felt when touching a surface. This concept highlights the real, tangible characteristics of the materials used in a work of art, such as the roughness of a canvas, the smoothness of a sculpture, or the layered nature of paint. Actual texture engages the viewer not just visually but also kinesthetically, allowing for a direct sensory experience.

Visual illusions or simulated effects are related to how textures can be represented in a two-dimensional form, but they do not possess the physical tactile quality that actual texture does. Similarly, while representations of light within a composition can enhance the perception of texture, they do not equate to the actual texture itself, which can be felt. Actual texture remains a fundamental aspect of the physical properties of art materials and contributes uniquely to the overall experience of the artwork.