Organic & Geometric Shapes

Organic and Geometric Shape

Organic shapes are shapes with a natural look and a flowing and curving appearance. For this reason, they are often also referred to as curvilinear shapes. Examples of organic shapes include the shapes of leaves, plants, and animals.

Organic shapes are not the same as rectilinear shapes, which are also called geometric shapes. Unlike organic shapes, most rectilinear shapes are angular. The only exceptions are oval and circular shapes. Most geometric shapes are manmade, though honeycombs and crystals are also considered to be geometric despite the fact that they are made in nature.

Artists utilize organic shapes and geometric shapes in different ways. When attempting to create a piece that looks natural, flowing, soft, peaceful, or calming, organic shapes are generally the shapes of choice. When attempting to create a sense of chaos, anger, or rigidity, geometric shapes are used. Geometric shapes may also be used to create abstract interpretations of things that would normally be depicted as organic shapes.

Organic shapes are also often used in gardening and landscaping. When creating a natural landscape, the natural look of organic shapes is desired. This can be incorporated in the layout of the flowers and other plants, in the design of the garden trim, and in the shape of ponds or other extras added to the garden. Conversely, a formal garden implements geometric shapes in order to create a clean and crisp look.

Organic shapes, whether utilized in art or in landscaping, can be difficult to create. Although it seems like they would be simpler to create than geometric shapes, which are rigid and precise, it can also be difficult to create organic shapes that truly look as if they came from nature. A curving or flowing line that curves too far can look manmade and detract from the natural look of the piece of art or the landscaping. Therefore, it can be rather time consuming to create organic shapes that look natural....