ELEMENTS

OF

ART

SH

AP

E

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF SHAPE

Geometric: These are the shapes you recognize and know names for. They have exact measurements and are not frequently seen in nature. You may recognize these from math class as well.

Organic: These are also known as “free-form” They are unpredictable and flowing in appearance. Many of these shapes are found in nature like the shape of a leaf or the outline of a tree.

GEOMETRIC SHAPES IN ART

The circles and squares that make up this sculpture are geometric shapes.

Claes Oldenburg Geometric Mouse - Scale A 1969/1971 aluminum, steel, paint

PIET MONDRIAN

CUBISM – THE ART OF SHAPES

Pablo PicassoThree Musicians 1971

Juan Gris Violin and Glass 1915

ORGANIC SHAPES IN ART

In this photograph of a real pepper, the gently curving outline of the form is an organic shape. The artist used light to highlight the form and show depth. The shapes of the highlights are also organic.

Edward Weston Pepper No. 30 1930

PIET MONDRIAN

Gustav KlimtFarmhouse with Birch Trees

Vincent Van GoghIrises

WHEN GEOMETRIC AND ORGANIC COLLIDEWhen combining both geometric and organic shapes in one

piece art, the art gains a sense of excitement and CONTRAST. When done effectively, BALANCE is created.

Dextra QuotskuyvaAwatovi Birds

Louise NevelsonCase With Five Baulisters

HENRI MATISSE

Born December 31, 1869.

Died November 3, 1954.

Heart attack at 84 years.

He loved bright colors not dull colors.

He loved mixing cool colors with warm colors.

He loved mixing geometric shapes with organic shapes.

Goldfish, 1972