• Organize, connect, separate
• Symbolize an idea
• Create movement
• Provide texture or depth
• Convey a mood or emotion
• Provide emphasis
• Provide a framework

Geometric Shapes
In addition to the basic square, circle, and triangle discussed so far, other geometric shapes have specific meanings, some culturally-based. An octagon, especially a red one, usually means stop. A starburst is commonly used to grab attention and identify something that is new, improved, or 'on sale.'

Natural Shapes
Natural shapes can add interest and reinforce a theme. Rather than a plain box, frame text with a coiling rope or a spray of leaves or flowers. Use a freeform, non-symmetrical shape to convey a feeling of spontaneity.

Abstract Shapes
Some abstract shapes are almost universally recognized and easily 'read' even when the text is in an unfamiliar language. The stylized wheelchair, the male and female symbols for restrooms, and the jagged steps for stairs or an escalator are some examples. Icons are often abstract or stylized shapes. For example, a rectangle with a 'folded corner' often indicates a page in a document or a word processing program. A hollow circle or oval with smaller circles on the 'path' may be a literal representation of a planetary system or symbolic of a network, such as a computer network.

Auxillary Lessons
This course isn't the first time I've addressed the use of shapes in desktop publishing. Read each of the following pages (some are parts of longer articles but you only need to read the one page dealing with shape). Use your back button to return to this page after reading each auxillary page.

Use Shapes in Logo Design is part of a longer tutorial on logo design. This page shows examples of how you can use shapes to convey ideas plus more ideas on using shapes to replace letters.

In the same logo feature, Combine Lines and Shapes in Logo Design is about using the basic geometric shapes and lines to construct more complex images or to suggest familiar themes.

Hands-On Exercise
Look at ads, magazines, brochures, logos, and other printed projects . Find examples of basic geometric shapes used to construct more complex designs (see the Building Logos auxillary lesson to see what I mean). Look for examples of natural and abstract shapes. Find as many examples as you can of pieces that are use physical shapes other than squares/rectangles (if necessary, look through some of your design books and find pictures of pieces that use unusual shapes). Separate your samples into pieces that primarily use geometric, natural, and abstract shapes. (you'll need these for the assignment)

Next > Shapes Self-Test Assignment