LINE: Fundamental Elements of Art
Line is one of the seven basic elements of art along with Shape, Form, Texture, Value, Space and Color. These are the building blocks of all art and are a good place to start when making, looking at or analyzing works of art. Brush up on your visual literacy as we breakdown the wide variety of lines that artists use. Through the lens of the self-portrait, we look at how line is a way for artists to express their individual style and also a tool to control the messages they wish to communicate.
Check out the entire collection of KQED Art School videos!
Check out the entire collection of KQED Art School videos!
“Elements of Art” :: LINELineA line is the path of a moving point-that is, a mark made by a tool or instrument as it is drawn across a surface. Its length is distinctly greater than its width.
ContourA line that creates a boundary separating an area of space from its surrounding background.
Cross-contourThe line that defines a surface’s of a form between the outermost edges of the form.
CalligraphyThe use of flowing rhythmical lines similar to the individual qualities found in handwriting. It means “beautiful writing.”
DecorativeThe quality that emphasizes the two-dimensional nature of any of the visual elements. Decoration enriches a surface without denying the essential flatness of its nature.
ContourA line that creates a boundary separating an area of space from its surrounding background.
Cross-contourThe line that defines a surface’s of a form between the outermost edges of the form.
CalligraphyThe use of flowing rhythmical lines similar to the individual qualities found in handwriting. It means “beautiful writing.”
DecorativeThe quality that emphasizes the two-dimensional nature of any of the visual elements. Decoration enriches a surface without denying the essential flatness of its nature.