Shape Lecture

Lecture notes on Shape/handout shape exercises for class

What is shape?

Shape is:

An area that stands out from the space next to or around it due to a defined or implied boundary or because of differences of value, color or texture.

Types of Shapes

Actual Shape: clearly defined positive area or shape

Can be: Objective—appearing naturalistic

Subjective—invented or abstract derived from the mind,
Implied Shape

Psychologically suggested shape that does not physically exist

Amorphous Shape formless, indistinct,

Biomorphic Shape resembles forms in nature

Geometric simple shapes related to geometry

Spatial Treatment of Shape:

Shape can be: Decorative emphasizing the ornamental

Plastic having the illusion of the third dimension

on two dimensional surface.

3rd dimension possessing dimension of depth

architecture, sculpture, ceramics

Mass-appearing to stand out from space around it

Volume-a measurable area of defined or occupied

space.

Perspective a mechanical system for creating the illusion of space.

Art that developed shapes in specific ways
Cubism
Surrealism

Gestalt psychology psychological principle stating that the mind tends to try to see the “whole” or group relationship rather than individual shapes, items or parts.

Weekly Question
Who were the major artists that influenced the movement called Cubism.