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Early World Civilizations

Contour lines are the backbone of drawing, defining edges and shapes to capture a subject's essence. These fundamental lines serve as the foundation for artistic expression, allowing artists to convey form, structure, and depth in their work.

From blind contour to cross contour techniques, artists use various approaches to create different effects. By mastering contour line drawing, artists can develop their observational skills, hand-eye coordination, and ability to translate three-dimensional forms onto a two-dimensional surface.

Contour line definition

  • Contour lines are the fundamental lines used to define the edges, outlines, and shapes of a subject in a drawing
  • Serve as the foundation for a drawing by capturing the essential form and structure of the subject
  • Can be used in a variety of ways to create different effects and convey different qualities of the subject

Blind vs sighted contour

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  • Blind contour drawing involves drawing the contours of a subject without looking at the paper, keeping the eyes focused on the subject
    • Helps to train the eye to observe and the hand to record what is seen without the interference of preconceived ideas
    • Results in a more intuitive and expressive drawing
  • Sighted contour drawing allows the artist to glance back and forth between the subject and the paper
    • Enables more control and accuracy in the drawing
    • Allows for refinement and adjustment of the lines as the drawing progresses

Continuous vs cross contour

  • Continuous contour drawing uses a single, unbroken line to define the edges and forms of the subject
    • Encourages a fluid, gestural approach to drawing
    • Captures the essence of the subject with minimal lines
  • Cross contour drawing uses multiple, overlapping lines to describe the surface and volume of the subject
    • Helps to convey the three-dimensional form and texture of the subject
    • Creates a more detailed and layered drawing

Contour line drawing techniques

  • Contour line drawings can be created using a variety of techniques to achieve different effects and express different qualities of the subject
  • The choice of technique depends on the desired outcome and the individual style of the artist

Line weight variation

  • Varying the thickness and darkness of the contour lines can create a sense of depth, form, and emphasis in the drawing
    • Thicker, darker lines can be used to define the primary edges and forms of the subject
    • Thinner, lighter lines can be used to describe secondary details and suggest volume
  • Line weight variation can also convey the quality and character of the subject (delicate, bold, rough, smooth)

Descriptive vs expressive line

  • Descriptive contour lines aim to accurately and objectively represent the subject
    • Focus on capturing the precise edges, shapes, and proportions of the subject
    • Result in a more realistic and detailed drawing
  • Expressive contour lines prioritize the emotional and subjective response of the artist to the subject
    • Emphasize certain features, exaggerate forms, or simplify shapes to convey a mood or feeling
    • Create a more interpretive and personal drawing

Combining contour with gesture

  • Contour lines can be combined with gesture lines to create a more dynamic and lively drawing
    • Gesture lines capture the movement, energy, and overall impression of the subject
    • Adding gesture to contour drawing can help to loosen up the lines and suggest a sense of action or life
  • The combination of contour and gesture creates a balance between structure and expression in the drawing

Contour line and edges

  • Contour lines are used to define the edges and boundaries of forms in a drawing
  • The way edges are treated can significantly impact the overall appearance and feeling of the drawing

Defining form with line

  • Contour lines can create the illusion of three-dimensional form on a two-dimensional surface
    • Lines that follow the surface of the subject suggest volume and depth
    • Variations in line weight and direction can emphasize the curvature and planes of the form
  • Careful observation and rendering of the contours help to accurately depict the structure and solidity of the subject

Lost and found edges

  • Lost edges occur when the contour line is interrupted or disappears, blending into the background or an adjacent form
    • Creates a sense of depth and atmosphere in the drawing
    • Suggests the effects of light, shadow, and overlapping forms
  • Found edges are clearly defined and visible, separating the subject from its surroundings
    • Provide clarity and definition to the forms
    • Emphasize the boundaries and distinctions between shapes and spaces

Line and negative space

  • Contour lines not only define the positive forms of the subject but also create the negative spaces around and between them
    • Negative space is the area not occupied by the subject itself
    • Thoughtful use of line can balance positive and negative space in the composition
  • Paying attention to the shapes and rhythms of the negative spaces can enhance the overall design and impact of the drawing

Contour line and composition

  • The arrangement and interaction of contour lines can be used to create effective and engaging compositions in drawing
  • Composition involves the placement, balance, and relationship of the elements within the picture plane

Leading the viewer's eye

  • Contour lines can be used to guide the viewer's eye through the drawing
    • Directional lines, such as edges, contours, or implied lines, can create paths for the eye to follow
    • Careful arrangement of lines can lead the viewer to focal points or areas of interest in the composition
  • The flow and rhythm of the contour lines can influence how the viewer perceives and experiences the drawing

Implied depth and space

  • Contour lines can create the illusion of depth and space on a flat surface
    • Overlapping lines and forms suggest spatial relationships and depth
    • Variations in line weight and detail can imply distance (lighter, less detailed lines for background; heavier, more detailed lines for foreground)
  • The interaction of contour lines can define planes and create a sense of receding or advancing space

Balance and visual interest

  • The distribution and interplay of contour lines can create balance and visual interest in the composition
    • Balancing the placement and weight of lines (thick vs. thin, dense vs. sparse) across the picture plane
    • Creating contrast and variety in line quality, direction, and spacing to engage the viewer
  • Thoughtful use of contour lines can establish a sense of harmony, movement, or tension in the drawing

Contour line drawing exercises

  • Practicing contour line drawing through targeted exercises can help to develop observation skills, hand-eye coordination, and expressive linework
  • These exercises challenge the artist to focus on different aspects of contour drawing and explore various techniques

Blind contour still life

  • Set up a simple still life arrangement and draw the contours without looking at the paper
    • Focus on the edges and shapes of the objects, moving the eye slowly along the forms
    • Aim for a continuous, unbroken line that captures the essential outline of the subject
  • This exercise trains the eye to observe closely and the hand to respond directly to visual information

Continuous line portrait

  • Create a portrait using a single, continuous line without lifting the pen or pencil from the paper
    • Begin with the most prominent feature (eye, nose) and work outward, connecting the features with a flowing line
    • Vary the speed and pressure of the line to suggest changes in form and detail
  • This exercise encourages a fluid, intuitive approach to drawing and helps to simplify complex forms

Cross contour drapery study

  • Arrange a piece of fabric with folds and creases, and use cross contour lines to describe its surface and volume
    • Observe the way the fabric drapes and curves, and use overlapping lines to follow the contours and suggest the form
    • Vary the direction, weight, and spacing of the lines to create a sense of light, shadow, and texture
  • This exercise focuses on understanding and depicting three-dimensional form through the use of cross contour lines

Term 1 of 19

Balance
See definition

Balance refers to the visual stability achieved in a composition, where elements are arranged in a way that creates a sense of equilibrium. This concept is crucial in art and design as it helps guide the viewer's eye and ensures that no single element overwhelms the others, contributing to an overall harmonious appearance.

Key Terms to Review (19)

Term 1 of 19

Balance
See definition

Balance refers to the visual stability achieved in a composition, where elements are arranged in a way that creates a sense of equilibrium. This concept is crucial in art and design as it helps guide the viewer's eye and ensures that no single element overwhelms the others, contributing to an overall harmonious appearance.

© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

Term 1 of 19

Balance
See definition

Balance refers to the visual stability achieved in a composition, where elements are arranged in a way that creates a sense of equilibrium. This concept is crucial in art and design as it helps guide the viewer's eye and ensures that no single element overwhelms the others, contributing to an overall harmonious appearance.



© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

© 2025 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Glossary
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