Elements of Art - Line

What does the term ‘line’ mean in art?

Line can refer to:

• The brushstrokes across a canvas

• Shapes sculpted out of wood or clay

• The composition of photographs

• All of the above

Artists use different qualities of line to express different ideas.

• True

• False

Explain how Mondrian uses line in abstract versions of natural landscapes and why he chooses to do this.

In Mondrian’s work, horizontal lines give a sense of ​ (a)________   , while vertical lines express a sense of​ (b) _________  ​​.

• (a) Movement and energy

• (a) Width and space

• (b) confusion and imbalance

• (b) height and depth

Mondrian and Van Gogh use line in the same way.

• True

• False

The lines in Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait with a Straw Hat are best described as:

• Bold and straight.

• Soft and curving.

• Zigzagging and harsh.

• Trembling and irregular.

Explain why curved lines can appear to be in motion.

Van Gogh uses line to express his emotional state.

• True

• False

What is the effect of Picasso’s long, continuous linework when drawing with a light pen?