The elements of point, line and shape are the basic founding elements of all aspects of nature as well as all aspects of design. It is through the combination and application of these elements that design is created. Point, line and shape in all of their different forms are found everywhere we turn in everyday life, even in places you wouldn't even consider.
Point
Point is the basis of every aspect of design. Whether it is the scales on a drawing of fish, the speakers in a car or the knobs on a dashboard, all shapes begin with and are made from points. A point can function as the center piece or focal point of work, as in the picture in the bottom left-hand corner, or it can be the starting point, as are the balls on the top of the fence found in the bottom middle picture. From far away points may not be recognizable but upon closer inspection, as in fabrics, the points clearly jump out of the image.
Horizontal
Horizontal lines create calming spaces. They function as a resting point for the eye. They are also used to draw attention to areas as in the picture located in the top right corner. The solid, aqua, horizontal line draws the viewers attention up off the ground and along the length of the building. Horizontal lines can lengthen a space. When they are paired with vertical lines, like in bricks, subway tiles and windows they help create a feeling of organization and bring order to the space.
Vertical
Vertical lines create areas of strength and stability. They are usually associated with supportive structures like columns. The picture on the right is a great example of the use of vertical line. The brick columns draw the eye up the length of the building and highlight the interesting architecture. Vertical lines also demonstrate balance as seen in the photo with the chair and curtain, as well as the headboard. Although these vertical lines may be different heights, they appear to be stable and balanced because of their equal distribution and placement.
Diagonal
Diagonal lines are representational of action. For example on a stairway, the slant of the railings imply a movement in direction either up or down. Diagonal lines are also supportive. The are used to support structures like awnings in the picture located in the upper right hand corner. This support provides stability between a horizontal and a vertical feature or line.
Implied
Implied lines can be found in a variety of places and cause the viewer to create shapes that are not necessarily "drawn out" for them. At a certain angle, separate buildings along a road line up so they appear to be one building creating a straight line that draws the viewers eye down the length of a road. Tall vases placed on top of a table work with the shelving to create vertical lines that draw the eye up the length of the piece. Implied lines are also found very often in natural settings. The variation of depth in the ocean alters the color of the water creating horizontal lines. Although it is one body of water, these lines seem to separate it. Implied lines can be broken as in the bottom picture. Although this line is broken, the continuation across the cracks is still apparent.
Organic
Organic shapes follow curves and lines that are more apparent in nature. Although they still have structure, they are not as structured and precise as horizontal and vertical lines. The lines on the sail of a ship and the curves of the petals of a flower demonstrate this type of line. Even something man-made like the draping of a curtain can create organic lines. The organic lines found in wood are highlighted by the cabinet doors as you can see the grains and lines found within the wood.
Structural
Structural lines can be best described as supportive. The columns of a pier support the foundation just as steps that lead of to a building. Iron gating in a unique diamond pattern is structurally supportive and can create strength in its ability to withstand impact. Columns of brick that are nestled between windows are also examples of structurally supportive lines.
Non-Representational
Non-representational shapes are ones that are not seen in objects that are recognizable and may even be considered confusing to the viewer. The viewer may not know exactly what the original object is without being told or without the title of the work. For example, the silver image in the bottom left-hang corner is a close up view of a fire hydrant and the image in the top right-hand corner is two wine bottles reflecting with light.
Natural
Natural shapes take organic elements, or elements found in nature and incorporate them into design and style. Whether its birds and leaves on a pillow, grainy wood on a door, rain drops on a window or vegetables painted on a sign, these elements of nature have been incorporated into design. Even little things like shells on a box or the shadow of a person creates line and shape that can be highlighted within any design and used to encompass a natural feel.
Geometric
Geometric lines have been taught to us for years but we take advantage of how many elements they are used in on a daily basis. Whether its the squares created by window panes, the rectangular length of tables, the circles paired with rectangles in sidewalk equipment or semicircles paired with squares, geometric shapes are all around us. Their structure and stability they provide are used to create pleasing spaces that appear comforting to the eye.
Abstract
Abstract lines are found in a variety of places as well. Whether its the odd placement of different levels on a roof, the swirls of a design in a dresser or the arrangement of tiles, all of these characteristics contribute to aspect design. These designs have the ability to function in more traditional environments but give the space an element of twist and unexpectedness.
