Visual texture is otherwise referred to as “implied” or giving the “illusion” of texture. This is usually on a two-dimensional, flat, surface like a canvas, which we can see.
There are countless techniques that will create different textured effects in a composition. We see these techniques in a variety of examples in art history.
Physical texture in art points to the physical feeling of artwork, something that has tactile qualities. In a painting, it is when paint has been thickly applied.
Van Gogh created texture not only through a thicker application of paint but also utilizing swirling shapes, which gave the composition a different meaning beyond what is real.
Visual Texture:Mona Lisa (c. 1503 – 1506) by Leonardo da VinciStill Life (c. 1625) by Pieter ClaeszPhysical Texture:Balloon Dog (1994 – 2001) by Jeff KoonsThe Starry Night (1889) by Vincent van Gogh