Organic and geometric shapes

ORGANIC and GEOMETRIC SHAPES___________________________________

    A shape is an element of art. Specifically, it is an enclosed space, the boundaries of which are defined by other elements of art (i.e.: lines, colours, values, textures, etc.). Shapes are limited to two dimensions: length and width.

    1. Geometric shapes:

• Are circles, rectangles, squares, triangles and so on - have the clear edges one achieves when using tools to create them. 
• Most geometric shapes are made by humans, though crystals are also considered to be geometric despite the fact that they are made in nature. 

   2. Organic shapes:

• Are shapes with a natural look and a flowing and curving appearance. 
• Organic shapes and forms are typically irregular or asymmetrical.  
• Organic shapes are associated with things from the natural world, like plants and animals.

Artists use organic shapes and geometric shapes in different ways:

1. When attempting to create a piece that looks natural, flowing, soft or calming, organic shapes are generally the shapes of choice.
2. When attempting to create a sense of chaos, anger, or rigidity, geometric shapes are used. Geometric shapes may also be used to create abstract interpretations of things that would normally be depicted as organic shapes.

Check the Artist's Toolkit webpage to learn more.

Exercise___________________________________________________________________

Make a composition with Organic and Geometric Shapes.