Line movement

Compositional Elements, Continued Line movement The term “line movement” refers to the direction that the viewer’s eyes move within the picture area, called directional lines, and lines that suggest attitudes or emotion, emotive lines. DIRECTIONAL LINES: Directional lines should always lead the viewer to see what you want him to see. Directional lines are created by arranging objects so that the outlines of the main objects lead to the intended action or center of interest. Directional lines may move smoothly and rhythmetically from one object to another, grouping and relating objects that belong together. The movement could also be abrupt, creating lines that clash. This latter method is appropriate when drawing scenes of violence, conflict, or stress. Review your thumbnail sketches. Evaluate which of the sketches have directional lines that successfully lead the viewer into the picture area. Do not allow linear backgrounds or foregrounds to compete or interfere with the center of interest. Avoid crowding lines or having lines spaced at equal intervals. Figure 1-7 shows directional lines. Figure 1-7.—Directional lines. Continued on next page 1-9