Lines, technically, do not exist in nature. What we see are thin, solid volumes such as telephone lines, tree branches, wrinkles, etc. Lines are, however, the most basic, primitive forms of expression. It is through the use of line that we first explored our world as children.
Lines have certain expressive qualities. They can be thin, thick(weight), provide texture, cross-hatched for shading and tone, and give direction. For some online fun, try the following websites for line adventure.
Click here for scribbler
Click here for mugtug sketchpad
Click here for Pixlr
For a historical perspective on the use of expressive lines, Pablo Picasso is famous. The image below is a link to a great website of Picasso drawings. The video at the bottom of the page depicts the artist in action.
The image below is that of Albrecht Durer's portrait of the head of an apostle. Durer is another famous artist known for excellent line work. The image also serves as a link to a wonderful website for Durer's artwork.
Now lets try an art project that will give you some experience with expressive lines.
Below is a powerpoint presentation of a simple line drawing exercise that you will not only find easy, but you will be amazed at your own potential for creating art!
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