Lines connect to make the borders of shapes. Shapes are two-dimensional (i.e., flat) areas defined by a boundary.
Mass refers to three-dimensional solid forms with volume and identifiable boundaries. Mass has volume and by definition is not flat.
The word form can be used to refer to a shape or mass.
Examples of the term:
Implied Shape:
In the last unit we learned about implied lines, the visual, suggested lines our eyes create. In this image implied lines connect to create an implied shape (between the black Pac-Man or fortune cookie shapes).
To begin this interactive presentation, click on the BIGRED CIRCLE.
Geometric Shape/ Mass:
Geometric forms have agreed upon characteristics and are defined by mathematical formulas. These are usually recognizable and have specific names, such as: circle, sphere; square, cube; triangle; cone.
Piet Mondrian's painting, Composition in Color A, demonstrates the use of geometric SHAPES.
Tony Smith's sculpture, Die, is an example of geometric MASS.
Smith chose to use steel, an engineered metal. I think this choice adds to the work's man-made appearance.
Organic Shape/ Mass:
Organic forms are irregular and resemble things found in nature. A water stain on the ceiling is an example of an organic shape. A lump of clay is an example of an organic mass.
Joan Miro's, Painting, demonstrates the use of organic SHAPES.
Henri Moore's sculpture, Recumbent Figure, is an example of an organic MASS.
Moore chose a natural material, stone, to accentuate the organic appearance.
