Design Basics Shape resource material: Design Basics by David A. Lauer and Stephen Pentak (pages 131 through 148) Launching the Imagination:Two Dimensional Design by Mary Stewart (1-6 through 1-15) A shape is created when a line connects to enclose an area - an area of color or texture is defined by a clear boundary - an area is surrounded: A shape that seems three dimensional is called a volume. This illusion of space is generally created using lighting. Both shape and volume can be used to create a compelling composition. In Aaron Douglas' work, overlapping shapes and transparent shapes create rich environments. Graphic designers are aware of the unique power of both flat shapes and dimensional volumes. On a book cover for Ulysses, Carin Goldberg used crisp, simple shapes to create a dramatic design. the primary colors of red, yellow, and blue combined with the tilted text block attract attention. The illustrator, John Jinks used a different approach. Every shape is gradated to suggest a light source and that creates the illusion of space. Flat shapes have been combined with dimensional volumes in Gustav Klimt's Salome. Flat patterns and color surround the volumetric figures, while two curving lines add a sinuous energy to the center of the design. Types of Shape Postive and Negative: Basic compositional shape is often called the negative shape, or ground, while any shape added to this compositional playing field is called a positive shape, or figure. When the figure and ground are equally well designed, every square inch of the image becomes engaged. In Bill Brant's photograph, the dark negative shapes define the positive figure while the brightly lit arm and face define the edges of the dark ground. Figure/ground reversal creates another kind of force, as first the positive then the negative shapes command attention. M. C. Escher was master of figure/ground reversal.