1. LINE
Vertical
Horizontal
Diagonal
Curved
Zigzag

2. What different lines express…
Depending upon its direction, a line brings up different ideas or feelings in your viewer based on his experience of the world.

3. Vertical Lines Make objects look tall & Powerful
Lend a spiritual or religious dimension
Stability, poise, dignity, stiffness, and formality

4. Line
John Sexton
Aspens, Dusk
1978

5. Line
John Sexton
Aspens, Dusk
1978

6. Line
John Sexton
Aspens, Dusk
1978

7. Horizontal Lines
Restful
Peaceful
Quiet
Stability
Comfort
Relaxation

8. Line

9. Line

10. Diagonal Lines Create a sense movement as eye follows path
Instability, tension, and excitement.
Discomfort
Stable when holding each other up, as in the roof of a house.

11. Line

12. Line

13. Line

14. Curved Lines Express some activity Graceful Sensual Feminine
Spiral curves can be hypnotic as they draw the eye to the center.

15. Line
Ansel Adams
Roots
1948

16. Line
Ansel Adams
Roots
1948

17. Line
Ansel Adams
Roots
1948

18. Ansel Adams
Roots
1948

19. Zig-Zag Lines Extreme action Confusion Nervousness and excitement
Zigzags that move horizontally are less active than irregular zig-zags

21. LEADING LINE Lead the viewer’s eye to the subject
Can be implied or physical
Adds visual interest to your composition

22. Leading Line

23. Leading Line
Implied line formed by line of sight

24. Line Examples Find the following examples and post them: Horizontal
Vertical
Diagonal
Zig Zag
Curved
After each image, write two sentences explaining the following:
What type of line is being used and how?
What effect does the use of line have on the image?
Leading line
Physical
Implied
Ralph H. Gibson
American, b, 1939
Self Portrait in Paris, Hotel du Pont Royal
1985
gelatin silver print on paper