Learning a Line

Objective: 

The line is a foundational element of art, serving as the basis from which forms, shapes, and structures emerge. This assignment aims to deepen students' understanding of the line, not just as a tool, but as a narrative, a journey, and an expression. Through exploration, students will harness the potential of a line beyond its apparent simplicity.

Instructions:

1. Begin with Observation: 

Dedicate a day to observing lines in your environment. From architectural edges, shadows on the ground, to the lines on someone's hand, document these instances. Use a sketchbook or camera, capturing as many as you can.

2. Interpretation & Expression: 

Reflect on the lines you observed. Were they rigid? Flowing? Interrupted? Based on your observations, create an artwork focusing exclusively on the line. Here are some avenues to explore:

Narrative Line: Convey a story using just lines. Consider line weight, direction, and density to convey emotions or events.

Rhythmic Line: Explore repetition and variation, creating a sense of rhythm and movement in your composition.

Expressive Line: Use lines to convey an emotion or state of mind. Sharp, jagged lines might evoke feelings of anxiety, while smooth, flowing lines might express tranquility.

Interactive Line: Challenge viewers to interact with your artwork. Maybe lines lead the viewer's gaze in a particular path or invite them to physically engage with the piece.

3. Medium of Choice:

While traditionally, lines are explored with pen, pencil, or charcoal, challenge yourself. Consider unconventional mediums like string, wire, digital media, or even a performance where a moving body traces lines in space.

4. Reflection: 

Accompany your artwork with a brief written reflection (around 200 words). Discuss your observations, your choice of line interpretation, the medium you chose, and how the experience changed or deepened your understanding of lines.

5. Presentation: 

Share your piece with the class. Describe your observation process, the choices you made based on those observations, and any challenges or discoveries you faced.

Assessment Criteria:

1. Depth of Observation: Quality and variety of lines documented during the observation phase.

2. Creativity & Originality: How the concept of the line is expanded upon and expressed.

3. Execution: Technique, skill, and innovation in the chosen medium.

4. Reflection: Insight and understanding showcased in the accompanying reflection.

5. Presentation: Ability to explain and contextualize the artwork, emphasizing the role of the line.

Note to Students: Embrace the omnipresence and versatility of the line. This assignment seeks to elevate your appreciation of this fundamental element, urging you to see its potential in guiding, narrating, and evoking. Dive deep and let the line lead the way.

Learn how to do something that involves a line.