Elements of Design: LINE

A line is:

• A mark that is longer than it is wide
• An infinite number of points
• The moving path of a point

Line is often referred to as “the most basic element of design”. Yet this simple element functions in complex ways. Used effectively, line expresses a variety of verbal and visual concepts. Line works either by itself or in conjunction with other lines to communicate messages and impact audience.

A line can have different qualities - it can be curved or straight, thin or thick, loose or precise, delicate or bold, expressive or controlled. The qualities of a line will evoke different feelings; a curved line feels natural and organic, while a straight line feels manmade and mechanical. A delicate line feels soft and feminine, while a bold line feels strong and masculine.

A horizontal line reminds us of a calm horizon or a person lying down; it implies quiet and rest. A vertical line makes us think of a skyscraper or a person standing straight and tall; it feels strong and aspiring. A vertical line contains potential for activity, and so creates a more energetic feeling than a horizontal line. A diagonal line is like a bolt of lightening or a person leaning forward poised to run; it suggests energy and movement. Diagonal lines are the most dynamic.

Not all lines are actual lines; sometimes we perceive lines that are not really there. Implied lines are created by a series of points, such as a dotted line or a group of people standing in a row. Psychic lines are not real at all, but are lines we feel; for example when a figure’s eyes are looking in a specific direction or when a line or shape is pointing at something.

Exercise #1 Line
Line Assignment:
Take 15+ digital photographs of the Element of Design- LINE. Look for all sorts of different types of line, straight, wiggly, craggy, weaving, diagonal, organic, geometric...
Download, edit and evaluate, save best to sharing folder.
Upload your best photo to your personal blog with definition of line and an explanation as why this image is a good example of line.
Create a contact sheet of 15-30(max) images to show your process. Save as a JPG and upload to your blog.
Examples and Characteristics of Lines