* Positive connotations:
* The artist's artful use of light and shadow created a sense of depth and mystery in the painting.
* Her artful negotiation skills helped her secure a much better deal for her company.
* He was known for his artful storytelling, weaving tales that captivated his listeners.
* Neutral connotations:
* The spy used artful deception to gain access to the secret documents.
* The politician's artful dodging of the question left the reporters unsatisfied.
* Negative connotations:
* The con artist's artful lies convinced many people to invest in his fraudulent scheme.
* Her artful manipulations of the situation made everyone suspicious of her motives.
The meaning of "artful" can vary depending on the context, so be mindful of the nuance you want to convey.