ELEMENTS OF ART: LINE

Definition of Line: An element of art that is used to define shape, contours, and outlines, also to suggest mass and volume. It may be a continuous mark made on a surface with a pointed tool or implied by the edges of shapes and forms. ELEMENTS OF ART:LINE

Line exists in nature

Here are some examples of line that is in nature. Can you think of other examples of line in nature?

Types of Lines

Gesture LinesContour LinesSketch LinesCalligraphic LinesImplied Line

GESTURE LinesLines that are energetic and catches the movement and gestures of an active figure or the feeling of the overall shape

What is this a gesture of?

CONTOUR Lines Lines that describe the shape of an object and the interior detail (Outline of the basic shape and details)

Sketch LinesLines that captures the appearance of an object or impression of a place, creates textureLines can be combined with other lines to create textures and patterns. This is common in engravings and pen and ink drawings such as the one on the right. The use of line in combination results in the development of form and value, which are other elements of design.

Calligraphy LinesGreek word meaning beautiful writing. Precise, elegant handwriting or lettering done by hand. Also artwork that has flowing lines like elegant handwriting.

IMPLIED linesLines that are not actually drawn but created by a group of objects seen from a distance. The direction an object is point to, or the direction a person is looking at.As young children we usually begin drawing landscapes by making outlines for earth, sky, and other objects. Gradually we learn that objects do not have such outlines and we let color changes define the edges of shapes, creating implicit lines. Thus we can speak of a horizon "line," or the "lines" of a car or a fashion silhouette, even though we know there is no literal line present.

How does pointing at a person create a line?

CHARACTERISTICS OF LINE

WidthLength DirectionFocusFeeling

WIDTHThick, thin, tapering & uneven

LENGTHLong, short, continuous & broken

DIRECTIONHorizontal, vertical, diagonal, curving, perpendicular, parallel, radial & zigzag

Expressive Qualities of Line

Horizontal line suggests a feeling of rest or repose. Objects parallel to the earth are at rest in relation to gravity. Therefore compositions in which horizontal lines dominate tend to be quiet and restful in feeling. One of the hallmarks of Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural style is its use of strong horizontal elements which stress the relationship of the structure to the land.

Expressive Qualities of LineVertical lines communicate a feeling of loftiness and spirituality. Erect lines seem to extend upwards beyond human reach, toward the sky. They often dominate public architecture, from cathedrals to corporate headquarters. Extended perpendicular lines suggest an overpowering grandeur, beyond ordinary human measure.

Expressive Qualities of LineDiagonal lines suggest a feeling of movement or direction. Since objects in a diagonal position are unstable in relation to gravity, being neither vertical nor horizontal, they are either about to fall, or are already in motion, as is certainly the case for this group of dancers. In a two dimensional composition diagonal lines are also used to indicate depth, an illusion of perspective that pulls the viewer into the picture-creating an illusion of a space that one could move about within. Thus if a feeling of movement or speed is desired, or a feeling of activity, diagonal lines can be used.

Expressive Qualities of LineHorizontal and vertical lines in combination communicate stability and solidity. Rectilinear forms stay put in relation to gravity, and are not likely to tip over. This stability suggests permanence, reliability and safety. In the case of the man in this family group, the lines seem to imply stability to the point of stodginess.

Expressive Qualities of LineDeep, acute curves, on the other hand, suggest confusion, turbulence, even frenzy, as in the violence of waves in a storm, the chaos of a tangled thread, or the turmoil of lines suggested by the forms of a crowd. Curved lines do vary in meaning, however. Soft, shallow curves suggest comfort, safety, familiarity, relaxation.

What feeling do you get from these?Confusion or Comfort?

What about these?