What distinguishes a flat wash from a graded wash?

The correct answer highlights the characteristic of a graded wash, which is defined by its transition between colors or tones. In a graded wash, the artist skillfully blends one color into another, creating a seamless gradient effect. This technique allows for a smooth progression from one shade to another, which can add depth and interest to a painting.

In contrast, a flat wash is marked by its uniformity, where one color or tone is applied consistently across a surface without any variation in color intensity or transition. This kind of wash is used to create a solid, even background or area of color that does not shift or blend into another color, demonstrating the visual difference from the more dynamic and blended approach of a graded wash.

Understanding the distinctions between flat and graded washes is essential for artists as it affects the overall mood and depth in their artwork, enabling them to choose the appropriate technique based on their artistic intentions.