Good Use of Leading Lines
In this example we are led back to the distant mountains.
Leading lines guide the viewer through a composition. Lines can be indicated through a pattern of elements, such as stepping stones that lead the viewer to another place in the composition. Leading lines can also guide the viewer to a focal point, which is the center of interest in a composition.
In art, a tangent is the unfortunate meeting of two or more similar lines or elements. Artists usually avoid tangents because they can make a scene confusing.
Good Use of Leading Lines
In this example we are led back to the distant mountains.
Tangents Cause Confusion
Tangents can be confusing for a viewer. This sketch has a tangent where the tree aligns with the end of the house, making it look as if the tree were part of the house.
Bad Use of Leading Lines
Not all lines lead properly. They may lead the viewer right out of the scene.
Remedying a Tangent
An easy remedy for this example is to move the tree slightly away from the corner of the house to avoid a tangent.