Shape

Element: Shape

There is no shape ‘sheriff’

Tere is no right or wrong way to fnd shapes in your drawings; there is no sherif or committee to say what constitutes a shape or what does not.

It’s up to you.

So, be free and adventureous in your shape making. Look for potential shapes that are diferent on all sides, that are interesting to look at and to consider. Remember; if a shape seems boring to you, it will probably seem boring to the viewer, too.

Likewise, if you fnd a dynamic shape, it will appear interesting to the viewer, too.

Keep the best and toss the rest.

Tip

Some people are attracted to organic shapes and others like geometric shapes, or linear shapes. Ask yourself which kind attracts you, then identify those ‘magic’ shapes }that resonate for you.

Tree study, pencil on paper, 8 x 10 in., Jim Chapman

Garrett 1, charcoal on paper, John Amoss Element: Shape

Now, what to do with those found shapes

In the excellent drawing above, can you guess the light source? Although we don’t see the source, it is very apparent that it comes from the upper right. Te light-struck shapes and the shadow shapes all create a convincing composition that agrees to the unseen light source. Many times our drawings may not work because our shapes, as defned by a light source, are not accurate. We may fudge and toss in unclear shadow or light-struck shapes and hope for the best. Instead, make your shapes decisive.

To learn more on light and shadows, see page 43 for more examples.