On most occasions, cross contour lines are drawn at varying angles.Ĭross contours follow the surface area’s form, using curved lines, spherical planes, and straight lines across flat surfaces. Cross contour lines may be vertical or horizontal, or both. * Cross Contour Lines: Just as the name suggests, cross contour lines are drawn lines that travel across the form. The objective is to ensure you are drawing what you see but not what you might be seeing. * Blind Contour Lines: This is strikingly similar to a regular contour drawing except that here, you are keeping your eyes on the object you are drawing without looking at the drawing paper.Īlso, ensure the tip of your pen or pencil is in contact with the paper at all times. As earlier explained, the contour drawing technique is where most aspiring artists start by simply learning how to draw the shape’s visible edges.Ĭontour lines describe the outermost edges of an object and the plane’s dramatic changes in form. * Contour Drawing: A contour is simply a line that defines an object’s edge or form. There are several types of contour line drawings, but the most popular and most used include: How to Draw Without Looking at the Paper.What is the Difference Between Blind Contour and Contour Line Drawing?.It is incredible how your ability to draw lines and shapes can significantly enhance your drawing when you don’t focus on shadings, colors, and details. Without emphasizing all the details of whatever you are drawing, contour drawing allows you to practice the basics of art and view objects differently in terms of their shapes. You’ll also learn how to combine various lines and shapes to make the desired objects or forms.Ĭontour drawing brings you back to your art basics because it forces you to view objects in their simplest forms. Over time, you’ll master how to keep your hands steady as you draw. From the moment you pick up a crayon and try to reproduce shapes, straight lines, or circles, you are primarily starting your artistry journey. Remember that most artists learn drawing through contour drawing. Just pure lines! Regarded as one of the most basic drawing techniques, contour drawing is what most budding artists learn in their journey to becoming top artists.Įven though contour drawing is quite simple and straightforward, its potential benefits are enormous. What’s more, you wouldn’t include color variations and highlights. You wouldn’t include the bruises, scratches, or wormholes. Contour drawings only consist of lines and have very little detail.įor instance, you were to draw an apple, you would only draw a round shape and a stem. But what is contour line drawing in art?Ī contour drawing refers to an object or model outline without any shading, tone, or texture. In the hands of an experienced artist, contour lines can be used to deliver an astonishing amount of visual appeal.

It is widely regarded among art schools as arguably the most effective discipline for any beginner artist. Contour drawing is a highly essential technique in art because it is the foundation of drawing.

Contour lines in art lamp