Design Theory: Classic Graphic Design Theory Elements of Design: Line Site Design Page Design MultiMedia Teacher Resources Table of Contents Home Page Copyright © 1999 by Bonnie Skaalid

A line is a form with width and length, but no depth. Artists use lines to create edges, the outlines of objects. A line is created by the movement of the artist's pen.  Line Direction The direction of a line can convey mood. Horizontal lines are calm and quiet,             vertical lines suggest more of a potential for movement,     while diagonal lines strongly suggest movement and give more of a feeling of vitality to a picture. Contour and gesture Lines used to follow the edges of forms are called contour drawings     Drawings which seem to depict more movement than actual outline are called gesture drawings. Line as Value Lines or crosshatching can also be used to create areas of grey inside a drawing. These areas of darker shading inside a figure, called areas of value, can give a more three-dimensional feeling to an object.  Drawing by Marguerite Smith, Saskatoon Elements & Principles of Design: [Line] [Shape] [Texture] [Value & Color] [Space] [Movement] [Balance] [Emphasis] [Unity] Main Level: [Home Page] [Design Theory][Site Design] [Page Design] [MultiMedia] [Teacher Resources] [Table of Contents]