What is Form in Art?

Form is one of the seven elements of art. It is three-dimensional and encloses space. You can think of it as the shape of an object in space. Form is often confused with shape. Shape is a two-dimensional area that is defined by its boundaries, such as a circle, square, or triangle. In contrast, form is a three-dimensional object that encloses space, such as a sphere, cube, or pyramid.

Form and Space

Form takes up space and has volume. An artist can create the illusion of form with the use of light and shadow. This is called modeling. When light hits an object, it creates areas of highlight, mid-tone, and shadow. These tonal differences can create the illusion of three-dimensional form.

Implied Line

When you look at a work of art, your eyes are naturally drawn to certain areas. The path your eyes take is called an implied line. An artist can use implied line to create the illusion of three-dimensional form.

Types of Form

Natural Form

Natural form is any type of form that exists in nature. This can include everything from plants and animals to rocks and mountains.

Geometric Form

Geometric form is any type of form that is based on a geometric shape. This can include things like spheres, cubes, and cylinders.

Organic Form

Organic form is any type of form that is not based on a geometric shape. This can include things like leaves, flowers, and trees.

Form in Art

Abstract Form

Abstract form is any type of form that does not resemble anything that exists in nature. This can include things like geometric shapes and patterns.

Representational Form

Representational form is any type of form that resembles something that exists in nature. This can include things like portraits and landscapes.

Non-Objective Form

Non-objective form is any type of form that does not represent anything that exists in nature. This can include things like colors and shapes.