Line is the most recognizable of design elements. The quality or contour of a line is a powerful visual ingredient, and contains potential for unlimited expression. Words often used to describe line quality are thin, thick, rough or smooth.
Edward Steed, Beasts and Beauties, 2021, Ink & Watercolor
Steed is my favorite New Yorker cartoonist. His nervous, unpredictable line quality makes me laugh before I read the joke.
Bennett Bossert, 2021, Micron on paper
I recently saw Bennett Bossert's artwork as I was thinking about line quality. His even, consistent line often give his large drawings a floating, wave like feel.
unknown artist, matchbook cover
Rough translation from German: "The druggist and his medicinal herbs know what to do." What's not to like about these organic, branching lines?