AccessArt Glossary: Form
Form is the shape of something that you can see from all sides: the height, width and depth. Objects that are 3D have form, but 2D artwork can also give the illusion of form.
The term ‘form’ can be split into the categories ‘real form’ and ‘implied form’.
Real form is found in space, such as 3D sculpture or architecture, while ‘implied form’ comes from a 2D artwork that gives the illusion of depth.
Have fun exploring AccessArt resources focused around form.
understanding Form
Explore this resource to help with your understanding of what form is and how it can be used in both 2D and 3D artwork.
Talking Points: What is Form?
What is the difference between Form and Shape?
Shape is a flat enclosed area limited to two dimensions: length and width.
Like a shape, a form has length and width, but it also has depth.
It’s possible to add form to 2D drawings by playing with perspective, tone and shape to give the illusion of depth.
Explore Artists
Explore the different ways artists use form in their artwork.
henry moore's shelter drawings
Talking Points: Christo and Jeanne-Claude
Marela Zacarías
DIP YOUR TOES INTO REAL FORM THROUGH MAKING
Build your understanding of how you can experiment with form in 3D projects.
using Paper and Tape to Interpret Form
Sensing Form
Adapting AccessArt: From 2D to 3D
Playful Making Inspired by Nnena Kalu
Dip your toes into implied Form through drawing
Build your understanding of how you can create the illusion of form through 2D drawings.
Pathway: Exploring Form Through Drawing
see three shapes
Flat yet sculptural
Letting Form and Colour Coexist
