3.1.1: Line
Line is the most familiar of art elements because it is used every day in basic communication. Our handwritten language is made of lines and symbols created using pencil or ink. When asked to depict something by drawing, lines are used to create that image on a 2D surface. Line is essential to communication and image making on a flat surface.
A line is a point that has been stretched for a distance. Lines do not occur in our three dimensional reality, but our eyes create the line because of differences in shape, value, texture, and other factors. This also shows how line can interact with the other elements of art to create compelling 2d subjects. Linear (line like) elements often direct the viewer’s eye around an artwork since our eyes like to follow a "path" (also known as directional force).
As an element of art, line has a variety of characteristics that can be identified and utilized. The first is direction. These directions include horizontal, vertical, and diagonal. The direction of lines can imply feeling and meaning to the artwork. Horizontal lines suggest resting, passive or reclining forms. Vertical lines often make the object feel like they are reaching, growing up, or stretching. Diagonal lines are usually the most visually interesting. They often appear active, dynamic, and in motion.
In addition to direction, line also has characteristics that could include the following: straight, curved, wavy, broken, implied (your eye completes the line without the line being there), angular, thick, thin. These terms are often discussed in drawing.
This steel sculpture contains a variety of diagonal elements that create a more dynamic structure.
This stone wall snakes its way through the trees at Storm King Art Center.
Geometric & Organic Line Series
For this exercise, you will create a series of found geometric line compositions using the real world around you as inspiration. These lines can include geometric architectural lines found in buildings; or organic lines found in nature such as the vein lines on leaves. When drawing each, focus on the interior lines of the object(s) themselves.
Emotional Series
For this exercise, create a series of emotional line compositions that deal with the notion of your feelings. These lines should focus on your internal emotions and how to express them through line. Remember a line is a dot moving through space, so how would that line move
through space if you were feeling angry, sad, happy, etc. Complete the rest of the boxes with other types of emotions, be sure to label each box.