3.4 Line The line is the element by which a drawing is constructed. But the line has its own character, on which the character of the drawing is based on, and with which the character of its creator is revealed. As line drawing evolves, and different line weights are used, it can express a spatial depth and also define gradation of light and shadow.44 Although a shape can be recognized by its outline, its form and texture are best represented through line and shade. Shade gives a sense of three-dimensional reality to two-dimensional shapes.45 When casting shadow on a drawing, it becomes alive, it is not flat anymore; and when drawing by hand, that shadow can be casted very quickly as one moves his hand on the paper and changes direction of drawing. Lines can be made with anything and their characteristics are varied depending on the instrument they are drawn with. However, it is preferable to choose a combination of drawing tool and surface that enhances the quality of the line, comparing for instance a thin tracing paper with thick cotton paper. Depending on the style and how detailed the drawing is, as well as its scale, the drawing tool must be such, so that the line is suitable. When drawing by hand, each person draws differently and these lines are the most representative elements of our thinking and creative imagination. The character of the line is not only described by its width and texture, but also from the velocity of the hand that made it. A pencil line, for example, can be very heavy and thick at its starting point and thin and light on its end-point. This is one of the greatest limitations one has when drawing on the computer. Computer line is a laconic and
44
David Dernie, Architectural Drawing, (Second ed. London: Laurence King Publishing, 2010), p. 15 Brian Edwards, Understanding Architecture Through Drawing, 1st edn (London: E & FN Spon, 1994), p. 39 45
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