Hello, almost artists! “Can you draw me?” is a question an artist gets a lot but I’ve got a different question for you; “Can you draw me using simple shapes?” This question will make you think from a whole new perspective.
Have you ever wondered why we started learning to draw using boring geometric shapes? I always hated drawing circles and triangles again and again thinking it was just a waste of my precious time. I wanted to fill my sketchbook with beautiful drawings immediately, like 99.99% of you, not knowing the potential of simple shapes.
In this drawing lesson, you’ll learn the types of shapes, their psychological impact, how they can influence realism, and how to use them to break free from reality. Last but not least, these can help you develop your unique art style.
At the end of this drawing lesson, you’ll be able to observe things better.
What are simple shapes?
These simple shapes are like alphabets to a letter you can use to convey ideas emotions, and even stories. These are the building blocks of the visual world. They can provide a solid foundation for the most complex masterpiece.
Let’s learn some most common shapes:
- Geometric shapes:Those shapes with sharp and predictable edges and classic forms we learned in school, like circles, triangles, squares, etc.
- Organic shapes:Unlike geometric shapes, they have irregular edges and often have curved lines. They are free-flowing and look natural, like clouds, leaves, flowers, etc.
- Abstract shapes: These shapes have no resemblance to any recognizable object. They can develop through experimentation, and imagination and can be a mix of both geometric and organic shapes.
These simple shapes go beyond just their physical forms and structures; they carry rich and meaningful symbolism. A circle may be cute, a square may demonstrate strength and on the other hand, a triangle can depict danger. So whenever you look at an art piece, look for shapes that make it up and how they contribute to the overall drawing.
Shapes are not just pretty patterns they provide structure and support to artwork and put some expression and emotions in it.
1 . Foundation and structure:
- Building blocks:
These shapes are just like bricks to a building, smaller shapes making bigger ones giving them strength and structure. - Composition:
Shapes guide the composition and placement of the elements in your art, tricking your mind into a sense of harmony and balance, making them visually appealing. - Perspective:
By understanding shapes and their changing patterns with perspective you can create an illusion of space and depth in your artwork.
2 . Expressing ideas and emotions:
- Visual language:
Simple Shapes are the alphabet of the visual language. You can tell what their form might be telling you. It can demonstrate the danger if it’s sharp and triangular, and it may be a soft cute circle. On the other hand, the square represents strength, confidence, and power. - Mood:
Your choice of shapes can set the mood of your drawing. You can see this in different art styles. If the scene represents something wholesome, the art might contain round and cute shapes, and if it depicts horror then it will be more angular and sharp. Triangles can create a sense of drama and chaos. If strength is what you want to symbolize in your art then go for square and rectangle shapes. - Storytelling:
Choose the right shapes and arrange them for a better understanding of a visual story. This can make your artwork more impactful.
Visual language:
Mood :
1. Accuracy:
Train your eyes to see accurately:
The best way to train your muscles to see accurately is to start observing the world around you. Sit down, pick a spot, and Pierce your eyes on it. See the big shape first, then gradually break it into smaller simple shapes. See how basic shapes combine to form the big picture. Try to put it all down on a piece of paper precisely. Here are some practices to follow while you learn to train your eyes.
Draw from references:
This one we already discussed, like drawing from real-world or, still life, etc. But you can still have references from the pictures on different websites. Take any portrait, fruit pictures or, a chair and try to draw from observing it. Keep it simple, see the big shapes first then break it down into smaller ones and practice.
Draw from perspective:
As your eyes start observing things, you’ll notice that these simple shapes also have angles from different perspectives. You notice how shapes change when you move around. That’s when you need to learn to draw from various perspectives. A perspective is what we call a point of view. Measure the right proportions and relative angles accurately. Create forms out of basic shape.
When you start observing the surroundings, you’ll notice how light creates an illusion of depth and volume when interacting with shapes. You can achieve that depth by shading and using highlights in your drawings. Observing the world around you can help you create more accurate and convincing drawings.
2. Break free from realism and find your voice:
While realism is a valuable skill, breaking free from it can help you find your voice. Design your wild ideas and open a world of possibilities. Keep your ideas simple by dividing them into big shapes and then into smaller parts so that it will be easier to draw and fix mistakes if there are any.
Mold simple shapes realistically:
When you’re not aiming for photorealism, you can mold shapes realistically and create a unique style. Experiment with it, exaggerate it, and make it more cartoonish, or abstract. Use design principles in your art. Mix things up, and create something that resonates with you.
Design compositions:
Using components of design, makes art look more arranged and professional. Especially if you are making a design or styling out your art pieces. Balance your art and use contrast and rhythm to create appealing work. Use negative space around your art wisely to enhance composition and contrast. Use hierarchy to guide your viewer’s eyes to where you want them to look. Simply saying, by doing all this you’ll develop your art style that’ll make you recognizable among many artists.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, embracing the simplicity of basic shapes can unlock new dimensions in your artistic practice. By understanding how geometric, organic, and abstract forms influence not only structure but also emotions and storytelling, you equip yourself with powerful tools for expression.
Training your eyes to perceive these shapes in the world around you will enhance your accuracy and confidence as an artist. Don’t hesitate to break free from realism; allow your imagination to flourish by experimenting with shape manipulation that reflects your unique voice.
As you apply design principles to create balanced and compelling compositions, you’ll find that each piece becomes a true representation of your artistic vision. So go ahead—let your doodles run wild and continue exploring the endless possibilities that await!
