Art Discussion - Shape Language
Point to Line
In my last blog post, Art Discussion - Abstract Language I spoke about the importance for every budding artist to cultivate your own Abstract language. We can say a lot with the type of line we choose.
Jagged edged lines carry with them the feeling of disjointed and obstructed journey. Whereas, a smooth looping, curving line possess a feeling of a gentle and relaxed journey.
Above all, Lines represent a passage of time and an overall sense of motion. They link one aspect of a drawing to another, allowing your viewer to traverse your picture plane in a very relaxed way.
You can create very interesting imagery with just a simple line choice.
Tension can be achieved by duplicating lines in an almost parallel format. This recurring choice reinforces a single idea over and over again, in a persistent way.
Pro Tip:
“…I use symmetry a lot in my abstract designs. I find it adds reassurance and comfort as my viewer knows what to expect. By adding this level of comfort, I gain my viewer’s trust.
With this trust, I can now create unpredictable notions. Imagery can swiftly change direction, negative spaces can become shapes and my viewer is busy following the trail of breadcrumbs I have strategically placed about my page…”
from Line to Shape
Misleading and tricking the eye is at the forefront of any good design. As Artists, we want to never leave our viewer underwhelmed.
Try thinking of ways you can use the ordinary in a very different way. If a shape you like is simple and easily recognisable, try rotating its position to create something interesting.
Shapes are a great way to add subject and punctuation to your designs. Similar to lines, shapes carry with them a lot of preconceived information.
A single recurring shape can add story to your design. Minimal use of a particular shape can add points of interest in segments of the designs you want to highlight. Using shapes as moments to stop and look, will add depth and thought to your design.
Pro Tip:
“…Within my Abstract Designs, you will always find a small selection of circles. I like using circles as a question mark. For me, my circles pose the remark of, …hmmm... whats’s that ,… oh that’s nice.
Circles compliment my lines and shapes so very well. Their smooth, complete nature adds softness to the hard edges of my rectangles and squares…”
From Shape to Story
The line and shape combinations are completely up to your discretion. You are in control of what those shapes and lines say to you. This is where your designs begin to take on a life of their own.
Consider everything on your page an aesthetic choice. The thickness of your lines, the size of your shapes and the spaces in between. Every single element on your page should add to your viewer’s understanding of your design.
This is really where the joy of design begins. As budding Artists, you get the opportunity to create life and history into your drawings.
As an Art Instructor, this is where I spend a lot of time training my students.
Pro Tip:
“…Taking your drawings from merely a shape and line combination into a piece of Art is an incredible and joyful journey. I teach my students to always react not dictate. Let the imagery flow from your hands and onto your page.
The only way for us to know what we are capable of is to try…”
From Story to Art
Once you decipher the code for your own Abstract Language, the sky truly is the limit. Using ordinary shapes and imagery in a very unexpected way can help you begin to understand why you love certain shapes and designs.
Let your choice of line say something about your aesthetic interests. Let that line become synonymous with the type of Art you choose to create.
Likewise, let the group of shapes you relay on time and time again become your own. This is the very basis for a sound Abstract Language for your Art.
Take a moment to finalise the way your choice group of shapes look and feel. Let them express whatever it is you feel when you look upon them in unison.
Let these small decisions inform each other. This can help you create a design that is completely your own and absolutely unique.
ARTIST SAABIRA RAZAC. DIGITAL ABSTRACTION. UNTITLED II. CC. OCT 2020
Pro Tip:
“…It is very difficult to recall when I first began working with rectangles and circles in my abstract designs. For me, when I close my eyes, this is how I see my work, in abstraction.
I want my abstract designs to be joyful and energetic. As compared to my figure works, I want these designs to have a playful note with no beginning or end.
They reside in a part on my mind that is endless and free. A space when any and everything can exist in exciting harmony…”
Looking ahead
As always, Thank you for taking time to visit my blog. I hope these discussions shed some new light of aspects of your own Art that needed tending.
If you enjoyed this discussion, you can now join our Virtual Classroom for Digital Art 101.
Wishing you all the best in your own Artistic Endeavours and as always Happy Drawing!