The Line Theory

Line is the most fundamental human visual phenomenon which is also the most brief and intuitive way for us to express objects. However, there is no line in the real world. The line what we see is given through the interpretation and definition by our mind. From the very moment of its being, line is abstract. Among all the artistic creation, all the lines are the trace and existence which are the carrier of spiritual activities. Line itself and the integral application of line in the picture is with heavy subjectivity. Therefore, line is an implicit factor of artist's style, and the factor which can exist independently and express accurately the intention of artist. In the modern artistic creation, line is being freed to the greatest extent. As the bearer of thought and emotion, the various ways of expression of line have become the information record of artists' exploration. The value of line is being rediscovered. Line becomes the trace of pure being whose original and pristine state has been restored.This paper set out from the basic characteristics of the line to discuss in-depth on stylistic problem, technical problem, the creator's observation methods on line, and etc. To expound that the line in the real world and the line as an established skill should be a process of continuous observation and consummation, which requires an effective amendment to the established Schema in the artist's mind. This paper is composed of three parts, namely: line in primitive painting; line in traditional painting; line and modern contemporary painting.