Shapes are another important element in graphic design. Everything we design, cards, advertisements, websites we use shapes. We divide them into three categories:
- Geometrics (such as the triangle, square and circle)
- Biomorphs (These shapes are found in nature, such as leaves and trees)
- Abstract (Such are shapes that do not have a defined form)
Each of them transmits a specific message which, depending on what we want to express in our design, we make sure to use.
Below are the emotions evoked by the different types of shapes/forms.
The geometric shapes are the simplest shapes in graphic design as they tend to show a certain number of curves, points and lines. Below we will get to know the meaning of the most common geometric shapes.
Squares / Rectangles
- Power
- Stability
- Discipline
- Trust
Triangles
- Movement
- Balance
- Risk (Triangles that do not stand on their base)
- Stability (Triangles standing on their base)
Cycle/Missing
- Eternity
- Mystery
- Earth, Moon, Sun
The biomorphic shapes although more abstractly they represent elements found in nature such as animals, flowers and trees. Unlike geometric shapes, biomorphic shapes are not formed by angles and points.
Biomorphic shapes have a clear message depending on the element they represent. Because of their nature, biomorphic shapes make the viewer feel a connection with the natural environment.
The significance of the most common biomorphic shapes is:
- Authenticity
- Nature
- Freshness
- Ecology
The abstract shapes are visual symbols which may be the result of an abstract idea or a simpler version of biomorphic shapes. In some cases abstract shapes are difficult to convey an idea because of their abstract anatomy so the idea may be hidden in small details. As a result of this, abstract shapes can have infinite interpretations as they can represent anything depending on how they are designed.
