In visual arts, a technique emphasizes the outline of a subject. It delineates the edges and significant interior shapes of an object, figure, or form, effectively describing its mass and volume. This technique often relies on a single, unbroken line to represent the outermost boundaries and internal structure, creating a sense of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. For example, an artwork employing this method might depict a human face, showcasing the curves of the cheekbones, the shape of the nose, and the outline of the lips through a continuous, flowing line.
The employment of this artistic method offers numerous advantages. It facilitates the rapid capturing of essential visual information, enabling artists to quickly sketch and develop their ideas. Moreover, it serves as a fundamental exercise in observational drawing, honing an artist’s ability to perceive and translate spatial relationships accurately. Historically, it has been used in preliminary sketches, technical drawings, and as a standalone artistic style across various cultures and periods, offering a simplified yet expressive representation of reality.