“Line” is a visual element that forms the basic foundation of all art forms. A line is the fundamental element in all drawings considered to be a moving dot and is used as a visual definition of shapes and plays a vital role in expressing emotion, form, texture, and motion.

A line serves to be the foundation of a more significant aesthetic expression and is integral to all drawings. Apart from their principal functionality in creating outlines, defining perspectives, creating compositions or drawing edges, lines inspire emotional states and thus influence overall perception for the viewer.

Application of lines in the creation of drawings and paintings

While many think of lines as prominent elements in drawing or sketching, they have an undeniable significance in paintings. Let’s discuss the application of lines in art - 

• Border / Contour Lines

Defining the edges or boundary of an object or shape is the most prominent application of a line. Drawing the subject outline is the first step in any drawing or painting, and the moving points that result in the same are lines.

• Cross Contour Lines

Cross contour lines flowing over the surface form of the object offer much more than just the peripheral shape and help understand the dynamic characteristics of depth and lighting.

• Line Shading

The line is an element used to define the value of a shape. Using just lines, the artist can depict the levels of lightness and darkness by varying their concentration and distribution.

• Quality or Thickness of Line

Variations in the thickness of lines in a drawing can make prominent significant details, which helps define the focal points and makes the prime subjects prominent.

• Hatching with Lines

Shading the objects in a drawing using directional linear strokes is known as “hatching.” This technique is very prominent in sketching, pen and ink drawings and urban sketching.

Buy sketching drawing pencils from King’s Framing & Art Gallery for practising hatching techniques with lines.

• Cross Hatching

Like hatching, “cross-hatching” involves value definition but uses cross-directional linear strokes intersecting each other. Cross-hatching enhances the three-dimensional dynamics of an object or shape, thus resulting in a well-defined subject.

How do lines influence psychological responses?

Different types of lines have varying emotional and psychological implications. These are - 

• Horizontal Lines - Express calmness and distance
• Vertical Lines - Show might and height
• Continuous Lines - Show the direction and guide the viewer
• Broken Lines - Express flexibility and weakness
• Thick Lines - Depict might and strength
• Thin Lines - Show delicacy and fragility
• Curved Lines - Depict luxury and comfort
• Jagged Lines - Suggest anxiety and pressure
• Freehand Lines - Express fun and personality

Lines have the power to convey meaning and express emotions. Practicing watercolour pencil drawing with high-quality Derwent inktense pencils, as available at King’s Framing & Art Gallery, can help you master the application of lines in drawings and paintings.

2023-01-02 14:52:43 | Lise King | 4578

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