Unit 6

Term: Line

Definition:

A path left by a moving point. (Examples include a mark left by some moving utensil or the path your eyes take as you look at an artwork.)

Examples of the term

ACTUAL LINE:

An actual line is a visible path created by the continuous extension of a point by a moving instrument.

IMPLIED LINE:

• An implied line is an invisible line we create with our eyes as we look at an artwork and make visual connections.  
• The dashed line that divides lanes on a road is a great example of an implied line.  The line is not continuous, but drivers connect the dashes to see it as as one continuous line.  If they didn't see the connections, traffic accidents and road rage would be much more frequent!
• As we look at an artwork, our eyes follow a certain path as we naturally "connect the dots"within the composition.  An artist can guide our eyes by incorporating implied lines that create visual paths for our eyes to follow.

Implied Lines in Action: Click on the Red Circle to begin the presentation.

VERTICAL LINE:

• A vertical line is line that runs straight up and down. 
• Vertical lines are most often associated with strength and stability. 
• We tend to feel safe with vertical lines because they seem stable and remind of us strong, upright trees or buildings.

HORIZONTAL LINE:

• A horizontal line is a line that parallels the horizon.
• Horizontal lines are also associated with strength and are often peaceful and calming. Most people sleep in a horizontal position. We also tend be comfortable with horizontal lines because they seem stable (similar to vertical lines). 
• I can imagine that you are sitting on a horizontal seat, your computer is on a horizontal surface and you are depending on a horizontal floor to support you.  Most people trust horizontal planes every day.  We have learned from experience that horizontal surfaces do not usually move or bend unexpectedly.

In the painting below, examples of horizontal lines include: the boat in which the brothers sit, the line of the boat appearing below them in the picture plane, the horizon line behind them, numerous lines within the architecture along the shore, and the line of the trees above and to the right of their heads. (Interestingly, the line of the trees on the left is a diagonal line which acts to guide your gaze down to them.)

• All of these horizontal lines contribute to the peaceful feeling of the painting. These men are, no doubt, working hard to win the competition. I do not get the feeling that they are in any danger and it seems like a beautiful day to engage in an enjoyable sporting event.

DIAGONAL LINE:

• A diagonal line is a line that is slanted at an angle.
• Diagonal lines are often used to imply movement or create a bit of uncertainty in the viewer. Few objects can remain in a  diagonal position permanently, without some type of vertical support. We may feel tense or anxious when we see a diagonal line because it appears unstable. We assume it is either falling down to a horizontal position, or being raised up to a vertical position. Gravity teaches us fairly early in life to be wary of diagonal lines.

JAGGED LINE:

• A jagged line is made up of lines that come together from different directions.
• Jagged lines can be a little scary because they are often created by converging diagonal lines.  The diagonal lines, alone, may cause us to feel uneasy.  Jagged lines can seem even more threatening because sharp points are created when the lines meet.  We may be reminded of our previous experiences with other sharp, jagged things such as knives, the teeth of vicious animals, or metal tools.  Normally, people tend to use caution around objects with jagged edges.