Elements of Design
Types & Uses
Lines define shape, contour, and outline, and can suggest mass and volume. Lines can divide or unite elements on a page.
Diagonal lines and arrows can denote direction. Lines at the top, bottom, or sides of a page can provide an anchor to hold elements in place. We use
several types of lines in basic ways.
Uses of lines:
- Organize
- Texturize
- Guide the eye
- Provide movement
- Make a statement
- Convey universal meanings
Types of lines:
- Outline (lines made by the edge of an object or its silhouette)
- Sketch (lines that captures the appearance of an object or impression of a place)
- Contour (lines that describe the shape of an object and the interior detail)
- Gesture (lines that are energetic and catch the movement of an active figure)
- Calligraphic (precise, elegant lines done by hand; from the Greek word meaning beautiful writing)
- Implied (lines not actually drawn but suggested by a group of objects seen from a distance; the direction an object is pointing to, or the direction a person is looking)