2.1 Line in Art

Definition of Line

A line is a mark that extends in a direction. It can be straight, curved, thick, thin, or any combination thereof. Lines are fundamental in art as they guide the viewer's eye through a composition. They can convey movement, emotion, and structure.

Types of Lines

There are several types of lines that artists use to create different effects:

• Straight Lines: These are lines that travel in one direction without any curves. They can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. Straight lines often convey stability, order, and direction.
• Curved Lines: These lines bend and change direction. They can be gentle and flowing or sharp and abrupt. Curved lines suggest movement, fluidity, and flexibility.
• Zigzag Lines: These lines follow a jagged path, often creating a sense of energy, tension, or chaos. They can be used to depict rough terrain or turbulent emotions.
• Diagonal Lines: These lines are neither horizontal nor vertical but slant at an angle. Diagonal lines can create a sense of dynamism, action, and instability.

Function of Lines in Art

Lines serve multiple functions in art:

• Guidance: Lines can lead the viewer's eye through a composition, guiding them to the focal point or important elements.
• Emotion: The type and direction of lines can evoke different emotions. For example, a smooth, curved line might evoke calmness, while a jagged line could evoke tension.
• Structure: Lines help define the form and shape of objects in a composition, providing a sense of structure and balance.

Examples in Art

Consider the following examples to understand the use of lines in art:

• Leonardo da Vinci's "Vitruvian Man": The straight lines and precise angles in this drawing convey the ideal human proportions and a sense of order and harmony.
• Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night": The swirling, curved lines in the sky create a sense of movement and energy, evoking the turbulence of the night sky.
• Pablo Picasso's "Guernica": The jagged, diagonal lines in this painting convey the chaos and violence of the bombing of Guernica, evoking a strong emotional response.