Elements of Art

Drop in One

Introduction: There are certain basic elements that make up art. Every artist uses these elements when creating artwork. It is important to know what these elements are and how they affect your artwork. When you know what they are and how to use them, your artwork will benefit. Form and shape are two key elements. The difference between the two can create a very believable, realistic piece of art or one that appears flat.

Problem/Information: you will visit the following website

http://www.whytownps.sa.edu.au/visarts/shape.htm

to find out what shape is and how it differs from form. While at this site you will view four paintings by Picasso. These paintings are wonderful examples of shape and form.

Activity: Which two of Picasso’s paintings used form (the top or bottom two)? Which two paintings used shapes (the top or bottom two)? What did Picasso do to the shapes to make them forms? What other elements of art did Picasso use in these paintings?

Print out and complete the shape/form worksheet. How will you make a shape into a form? What must you do to the shape in order to make them forms? What are the names of the shapes and their corresponding forms?

If you have extra time or want to learn more about shape and form, go to the Sanford site.

http://www.sanford-artedventures.com/