Textured Lines

Stop using the same old lines! Mix up your lines with these texture techniques used by the master, Leonardo Da Vinci.

• 1.

  Texture is an element of art that describes the physical surface quality of an object. We can feel textures by touching an object. Artists can visually portray textures using lines to imply the way something feels in real life—hairy, rough, sharp, silky, etc.

• 2.

  There are several ways to use lines to show textures. Use the broad side of the drawing tool to make shaded areas of light and dark. This can be used to make a smooth texture. Hatching is drawing evenly spaced lines in the same direction. Cross-hatching is a technique that crosses lines in the opposite direction of the hatched lines. Stippling uses dots instead of lines. What textures can you show with each of these techniques?

• 3.

  Explore the sketches and line drawings of Leonardo Da Vinci. Can you identify each of the techniques listed above in his drawings? What textures does he create using these lines?

• 4.

  On black construction paper, draw lines with Crayola Color Sticks to create different textures. Experiment with every side, point, and angle of the Color Sticks! Try shading, hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling. Use a different color for each technique to make your lines stand out! What interesting compositions can you make with these techniques?

Benefits

• Students explore the work of Leonardo Da Vinci and analyze his use of lines to illustrate texture.
• Students apply several art techniques to depict texture through line.
• Students create an abstract composition to show their understanding of the presented techniques.

Adaptations

• Fruits, plants, and flowers have a variety of textures. Set up a still life and challenge students to recreate the subjects using only the four techniques defined above!
• Create a monochromatic texture drawing! Older and advanced students will be challenged to use texture and lines to give definition to their illustrations by using only one color!
• Younger students and those with special needs may benefit from seeing several examples of each technique. Provide a detailed demonstration of each technique, and be available to provide extra help.