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Contour lines simply define the edge of a form. Another way to think of contour lines is that they are the outline of a drawing, or the line that defines the overall shape and dimensions of an object.
IN CONTEXT
In the example below, observe this work of art rendered using only contour lines.
Gestural lines are lines that emphasize movement in the gesture of the hand. Where contour lines are more deliberate and static, gestural lines are quick and timely. Their emphasis is on capturing movement rather than defining the outer contour of other shapes or forms.
IN CONTEXT
Below is a gesture drawing by Rembrandt. Note the lines that capture movement in this image. These are gestural lines.
Expressive lines are lines that seem to be expressive of the artist’s emotions.
IN CONTEXT
As you look below at Edvard Munch’s Scream, notice how nothing in the painting has a crisp, hard edge to it. The middle and background, in particular, begin to blur into a chaotic swirl of line and color that really enhances the feeling of anxiety or impending doom.
This painting, Scream, also has a number of examples of curvilinear lines. Curvilinear lines are simply curved lines.
IN CONTEXT
Take a look below at the painting once again. Pay attention to the lines that are curved, or curvilinear, in this work of art by Edvard Munch.
Rectilinear lines are simply straight lines. The steel movement of the early 20th century, which falls under the umbrella of abstract art, produced works of art that utilized only geometric shapes, primary colors, and rectilinear lines.
IN CONTEXT
Here is an example of a work of art from this movement. Note the highlighted lines. They are rectilinear.
Source: THIS TUTORIAL WAS AUTHORED BY IAN MCCONNELL FOR SOPHIA LEARNING. Please see our Terms of Use.