Art subordinate to means an art form that is secondary or inferior to another, more dominant art form. There are several synonyms for this phrase, including supplemental to, secondary to, supporting to, inferior to, and subservient to. For example, in theater production, lighting design is always art subordinate to the script and the actors. In music composition, the lyrics are usually art subordinate to the melody. Understanding the hierarchy of art forms is essential to creating successful works of art, regardless of the medium. By recognizing which elements of your art are subsidiary to others, you can work to highlight each component's strengths and create a more cohesive piece overall.