Points, Lines, and Planes: Basic Graphic Elements

The Point

A circle and a line are tangent if they intersect at exactly one point. Two circles are tangent if the line joining their centers is tangent to both. An oval is a closed curve formed by arcs of circles and symmetrical about two perpendicular axes. A ball is a closed curve composed of arcs symmetric about one axis.

Graphical Representation of the Point

Graphically, the point is the minimal footprint of a graphical tool. Geometrically, it is the intersection of two lines. The point can take several forms depending on the instrument used to create it: oval, star, round, polygonal, etc.

Sensory Perception of the Point

• Single Point: Located in the center of a bracket or blade, it creates a sense of order or balance. Located at one end, it creates a feeling of instability.
• Two Points: Evoke the feeling of a line.
• Three Points: Evoke the feeling of a triangle.

When points are used uniformly in a composition, they create a flat surface. Similarly, by concentrating and dispersing points on surfaces, we can create the illusion of three-dimensional shapes.

The Line

The line is the trace of the trajectory of a point, describing shapes and differentiating them from others. It is the basis of drawing.

Types of Lines

Lines can be classified based on their path:

• Straight
• Curved
• Wavy
• Broken
• Mixed

Lines can also be classified based on their relative position:

• Parallel
• Perpendicular
• Convergent
• Divergent

Finally, lines can be classified based on their stroke:

• Thin
• Thick
• Implied
• Continuous
• Discontinuous

Sensory Perception of the Line

• Straight: Sensation of stiffness or strength.
• Curved: Dynamic, feeling of movement.
• Horizontal: Feeling of calm and rest.
• Vertical: Sensation of balance.
• Oblique: Feeling of movement or activity.

The line's texture varies depending on the tool used (wax, brush, pen, charcoal, etc.) and its purpose (sketch, industrial design, architecture, etc.).

The Plane

A plane is formed by the intersection of at least three lines. However, we are most accustomed to working with square and rectangular planes because they are similar to the support on which we draw.

Characteristics of the Plane

The plane is a two-dimensional surface. However, by manipulating it on a support, we can achieve three-dimensionality through techniques such as:

• Overlay
• Transparency
• Twinning or penetration
• Changes in size
• Color or texture variations
• Arrangement on the plane

Expressiveness of the Plane

Similar to points and lines, planes have different expressive values:

• Horizontal Plane: Sense of rest.
• Vertical Plane: Tranquility, sense of balance and elevation.