Art Bites - SHAPE

The Art Bite Series continues with SHAPE
The round and/or oval shapes use mostly curving lines, and are thus a comfort shape. Think of a child seeing its mother's face. Squares and rectangles use straight lines and harsh angles so they stop movement and suggest power or maybe danger.
 
Another important shape is the triangle. Because the base of a triangle is so broad it would be difficult to tip, so the triangle is a power shape and it represents stability as well. As well as these messages, the shape focuses the eye. When confronted by a triangular shape, the human eye focuses first at the apex. Of course, the upside down triangular shape is just the opposite -- no triangle can stand on its apex, so this message is instability, change, or action
 

Round/Oval Shapes indicate comfort	Round/Oval Shape Example
The round or oval shape use mostly curving lines and provide a comfortable image to view. Note the round/oval faces and the curving line (indicating a circle) at the edge of the lace (outlined in red) covering the baby cradle. This 1872 painting entitled "The Cradle" by the French impressionist - Berthe Morisot - provides a pleasant viewing experience.

 

Square/Rectangular Shapes stop movement	Square/Rectangle Shape Example
Squares and rectangles use straight lines and harsh angles to stop movement and suggest power or danger. This shape also can be used to draw your attention to a specific object in the painting. Your eyes focus on the beer mug because your view is stopped by the square table outlined in red. This painting entitled "Still Life With A Beer Mug" was painted in 1921-22 by the French cubist - Leger.

 

Triangular Shape show stability	Triangular Shape Example
One of the most famous paintings by Leonardo da Vinci is a perfect example of the stability resulting form a triangular based shape. Note how your eyes are drawn to the apex of the triangle - the face. The 16th century painting "Mona Lisa" also uses a thick base to the triangle (the crossed arms) to strengthen the stability of the triangle and provide the viewer with a strong image.

 
So the next time you look at art, take a look at the shapes. These shapes have a story to tell and will heighten your enjoyment of the art.