Lines and Angles

What is it that makes one painting more compelling, more engaging, than another? Sometimes it's the most simple element of composition that takes a painting from "meh" to "wow"...the Line. Whether it's curved or straight, thick or thin, short or long, it is the Line that leads our eye and our attention. When you are looking at a painting, locate the ways lines have been used and notice how they lead you into the subject. Often the most dominant lines will take your eye right to the focal point or main idea. The angle of the line is important, too. A strong vertical or horizontal line can disrupt the flow of a painting, even taking the viewer right out of it. That may be the reason you have walked right past gallery paintings without know why. Not only did the use of Line not draw you in, but that strong horizontal horizon line pointed you to go on to the next painting! A sloping line, as in a hillside or tree shape, really helps to gently direct your attention in and around the subject.

There are often many lines in one painting: soft natural flowing lines that move your eye around the scene, harder and sharper ones that define structure, bold vertical lines (maybe a tree or pole) near the edge of the picture plane to stop your eye from leaving the scene. Look for that last example and see how it kept you engaged a little longer; maybe long enough to feel what the artist is trying to communicate.

Lines can also be hidden in ways that are less obvious to the viewer. When you look at a figurative painting you aren't likely to think of a leg or arm as Line, but consider how the figure may be positioned so that your eye follows the line of gesture up and into the focal point.

Lines may also be disguised in color or value, as in a field of grass, a cloudy sky, or a turbulent seascape. Even the directional paint strokes the artist uses can contribute subtle lines that make the painting successful. 

​In my previous blog I wrote about irregularity and variety in pattern; this one has been about lines and angles; stay tuned for another one coming soon...all intended to help you enjoy and create interesting and delightful art.

​ Thanks for reading!!