Elements of Art and Principles of
Design
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• Line is the path of a dot through space
• There are different kinds of lines. Some
examples are in the title.
• Every line goes somewhere whether it’s up,
down, or across. It may move at an angle or
curve back on itself.
• The five main kinds of line are: horizontal,
vertical, diagonal, curved, and zigzag
Horizontal lines
• Lines run from side to side -----• Lines like these seem to be ‘at rest’
• They represent peace and quiet. Think of a
horizon line (where the sky and land meet),
sunrise or sunset.
Vertical lines
• These lines run up and down
• They NEVER lean to one side. It’s like they are
standing at attention. Nice and straight!
• These lines represent strength and
performance...Think of someone standing up
to speak or the lines
of a skyscraper
Diagonal lines
• These are straight lines that are slanted or
leaning
• They may be rising or falling and represent
movement and excitement
Curved lines
• These lines change direction little by little
• Wiggly lines are made from two or more
curves
• Spirals and circles begin with curved lines
• Express movement in a graceful way
Zigzag lines
• Formed by joining many diagonal lines that
move in different directions
• Very sharp angles that make the lines change
direction suddenly
• Suggest confusion, action or nervous
excitement