that went for a walk.” ~Paul Klee “A line is a dot that went for a walk.” ~Paul Klee Objective: Identify, examine, and differentiate lines as an element of art.

Elements of Art: Line Joseph Stella. The Voice of the City of New York Interpreted: The Bridge.

What is line? Line is the path of a moving point through space. Characteristics: Artist use line to lead your eyes through a work of art. A line has a width as well as length. A line can be drawn on paper, scratched into a surface or even or sculpted.

There are 5 basic types of lines

Vertical Lines Vertical lines move straight up and down. They do not lean at all. Lines express different ideas or feelings. Vertical Lines appear to be at rest and express stability. They make objects seem taller when used.

Horizontal Lines Horizontal lines are parallel to the horizon. They do not slant. Horizontal lines express feelings of peace, rest, quiet that make us feel content, relaxed and calm.

Diagonal Lines Diagonal lines slant. Diagonal lines look as if they are either rising or falling. They express instability, tension, activity and excitement.

Zig Zag Lines Zig zag lines are combinations of diagonal lines. The diagonals form angles and change direction suddenly. Zig zag lines create confusion. They cause feelings of excitement and nervousness.

Curved Lines Curved Lines change direction gradually. Curved lines express activity depending on the type and direction of the curve. Spiral curves wind around a central point, are hypnotic and draw the eye to their center.

Other Types of Line… Perpendicular Lines-two lines that intersect or cross each other. Implied Line-Lines that may not have been directly drawn, but appear that they are there. The space created between two lines. Outline-The line which marks the outer limits of an object or figure in an art work. Also known as Contour Line. Broken Line (dashed)-A line which is composed of a series of line segments lying end to end, does not connect as a continuous line.

Line Variation Lines vary in appearance in 5 ways Length Width Texture Direction Degree of curve Long and short Thick and thin Rough or smooth Lines can move in any direction. Vertical, horizontal or diagonal. Lines can curve gradually or not at all, become wavy, or form spirals.

In the following 6 slides, identify the kinds of line that you see in the artworks. Don’t simply identify the lines as vertical, diagonal etc… make sure you identify the variations as well. For example you may have a thick curved line, or textured zigzag line. Identify as many as you can for each artwork.

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