Final answer:
The term 'drapery' refers to the artistic elements in sculptures or paintings that depict cloth or fabric, contributing to the artwork's visual realism through the interplay of light and shadow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that refers to artistic elements in a sculpture or painting is drapery. Drapery in art refers to the depiction of cloth or fabric, which, especially in sculpture, may give the illusion of sheer, almost transparent cloth. This technique exposes the form beneath and introduces a complex interplay of light and shadow, adding depth and realism to the artwork. Renowned sculptor Phidias is credited with pioneering the style of wet drapery during the Greek High Classical period. In the broader context of visual arts, other elements of art include color, form, line, shape, space, and texture. Moreover, the principles of art, such as scale, proportion, unity, variety, and rhythm, also play crucial roles in creating a harmonious composition.