This may be harder than you think. Because you know the object so well, you may be tempted to add in lots of detail, but remember, contour art focuses on the outer edges of the object. Cross-contour lines are a way to add depth to your contour drawings without adding shading. See examples here. Cross-contour lines will help improve your observational skills and learn more about the rules of perspective by requiring you to pay close attention to the outlines of an object and how the lines run across it.
The parts of the object that are closer to you will have cross-contour lines closer together, while the more distant parts of the object will have lines further apart. Contour line definition art is a great way for any artist, whether beginning or advanced, to hone their drawing and observation skills. Contour line drawing involves only drawing the outline of an object, without any shading. When you do contour lines in art, you should spend the majority of the time looking at the object, not your paper, in order to improve your hand-eye coordination and really get a good sense of what the object looks like.
Once you feel comfortable with the basics, there are many contour line art exercises you can try out to keep growing your skills! Are you making an art portfolio to apply to art schools? Check out our guide to learn everything your art portfolio must include to stand out from the crowd!
Now that you know how to create a portfolio, are you wondering what art programs you should apply to? Check out our guide on the best art schools in the United States! Want more drawing exercises? We have a guide with over drawing ideas to keep your artistic skills sharp! She has taught English and biology in several countries.
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Choose Your Test. What Is Contour Line Drawing? How to Draw Contour Lines in Art In order to get the most from your contour line drawing practice, follow these four steps when making contour art. Summary: Contour Line Art Contour line definition art is a great way for any artist, whether beginning or advanced, to hone their drawing and observation skills. What's Next? Have friends who also need help with test prep?
Share this article! Christine Sarikas. Watch your finger as you move it and try to imagine that it is leaving a line as it moves. Your finger will move and change direction according to the form. Another way to understand this concept is to look at a topographical map. Lines on a typographical map are closer together in locations where the elevation changes.
We can understand the form of the terrain by the lines that are printed on the map. But the best way to understand the concept of cross contour lines is to simply practice drawing them by observing a subject. Simple objects, like an apple, work best if you are new to this concept. There is practical reason for understanding cross contour lines.
This concept is important in communicating form in your drawings and paintings and can help you make smart decisions regarding the direction of your stroke - whether it be with a pencil, pen, or brush. While cross contour lines can flow in generally any direction, in most circumstances, you'll want to consider lines that flow vertically or horizontally around the form.
The brush strokes or marks made with a drawing medium are more effective in communicating the form of the subject if they flow with the cross contour lines. Just like if you were to run your finger over the form, these strokes will change direction in the same manner.
This is true for any drawing or painting medium. The strokes that are made with a pencil or a brush should flow in harmony with the cross contours of the subject and in turn, communicate more about the form of the object.
When combined with a consistent use of value , the illusion of form in a drawing or painting is easily achieved. Cross Contour Lines. Each drawing concept taught includes a short drawing exercise less than one hour that reinforces the concept taught.
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