Keys Color Value Shape Texture Space Line Principles of Art

Shape and Form

Shape is the element of design that refers to a defined area with two dimensions, while forms are objects having three dimensions.

A silhouette is a shadow-like shape. Geometric shapes are precise shapes that can be described using mathematical formulas. Free-form shapes are irregular and uneven shapes.

Forms may be either geometric or free-form, like a cube or a rock.

In the composite image to the left, the keys are forms because they have depth. The shading in the key design creates the depth. The orange key that has some curves is also a free-form shape. The hole in the key is geometric in shape and form. The whole design of the composite image is free-form.

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