“A line is a dot that went for a walk.” – Paul Klee
- Line is the result of a point moving in space or over a surface.
- Line can be defined as the contour – or outside boundary – of a shape.
- Line has two dimensions and its most important property is direction.
- Line has five physical properties, including its:
- Measure – the length and/or width
- Type – straight, curvy, zig-zag, etc. (discussed in more detail below)
- Direction – where does the line take your eyes when you look at it? How does the line make you feel (mood of the line)?
- Location – identifies balance or unbalance
- Character – what was used to create the line?
- Line has expression and purpose.
- Line is the product of weight and energy.
- Lines spaced at intervals establish:
- Surfaces – expression – proportion
- Contours of form – size relationship
- Eye movement and direction
- Rhythm and unity – boundaries of flat surfaces
Types of Lines
- Horizontal Lines – widen a composition, they also express quietness, peace and relaxation.
- Vertical Lines – express stiffness, strength, power at rest
- Oblique / Diagonal or Zig-Zag – express action, drama, anger, uneasiness or excitement.
- Curvy Lines – leads the viewer’s eye around the composition, express a feeling of grace, flow or playful movement.
- Wavy Lines – express graceful, gentle movement.
- Spiral Lines – express nervousness, confusion. They may make us feel edgy.
Some are:
- thick, fat and bold
- thin, soft and delicate
- hesitant and unsure
- fast, exciting
- wandering, meandering
- stumble and fall
