29 DRAWING LANGUAGE
THE SYNTAX OF DESCRIPTION
In the Western tradition, drawing is a complex array of approaches to description and notation. The choice of a particular technique or strategy depends on the artist’s intention for the work.
STRATEGIES
• Simple outline
A line is drawn around the shape of an object. It can be modulated in thickness, continuity, and strength of movement (see Linear Basics on page 104).
• Contour
Lines are drawn along the contours of a form, describing the interior in more or less the same way that a contour map operates. This allows the artist to make a precise description of form, an approach often favored by sculptors.
• Hatching
Multiple lines are drawn closely together in parallel to create areas of tone. The ...
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