The general outline of something is a shape, and can also be defined as a closed form or path. There are many ways to depict shapes on a two-dimensional surface. A shape is as 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, colour, or texture. Shapes can also show perspective by overlapping. They can be geometric or organic. Shapes in visual communication can be used to add interest, style, and theme to a design. Shape & form play a large role in photography and video and is often overlooked by amateurs.
In two-dimensional design, shapes possess width and length. When shapes possess volume, they move into the realm of three dimensions and are better described as form. In either dimension, the configuration of the shape or form determines its meaning. For example, the shape constructed of soft, curved edges can be described as sensual; the shape constructed of angular edges and points can be considered crystalline. Shape configurations can be described on a basic level as geometric or organic.
There are many ways to depict shapes in two-dimensions or form in three dimensions. One common way is with lines. Lines can be used to describe a flat shape, like a pyramid or a cube. A shape can be open or filled with colour, tone, or texture. How a shape is drawn gives it a quality; a shape may be curving or angular, regular or changing, flat or volumetric, and so on.
Other ways of describing the overall configuration of shapes includes figurative, mechanical, or natural.
Shapes must reflect the intent of the message. If your message is one of tranquil feelings, the use of harsh angular shapes would confuse the viewer. A sense of tranquility is more likely to be instilled by using flowing organic shapes.
Cagegories of Shapes and Forms:
Geometric:
Circles, squares, rectangles and triangles. We see them in architecture and manufactured items.
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Organic:
Leafs, seashells, flowers. We see them in nature and with characteristics that are free flowing, informal and irregular.
Static:
Shapes or forms that appear stable and resting.
Dynamic:
Shapes or forms that appear moving and active.
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While no one but you may see this hands on exercise, take the time to do it just as if you were turning it in for a grade. It will help reinforce what you have learned.
Remember form is the three-dimensionality of an object. Shape is only two-dimensional. You can hold a form; walk around a form and in some cases walk inside a form. In visual communication we usually use 2 dimensional images using value to imply form. For instance, shading a circle in a certain manner can turn it into a sphere.
1. Draw and correctly shade the four basic Forms. You may do this by hand or using your favorite computer graphics program.
Sphere;
Cube;
Cylinder; and
Cone
In you are not sure how to turn your basic shapes into forms, check out this short video:
If you would like to learn how to create forms on a computer check out the videos below. The first one shows you how to create shading in photoshop, and the second one shows you how to create 3D shapes using powerpoint.
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2. Using the skills you learned above, create an organic shape that appears to have form. Again, you may do this by hand or using your favorite computer graphics program.
  
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