How to Show Form As an Element of Art in a Painting
"Form" is one of the seven elements of art, which also include line, shape, space, texture, value and color. These elements together form a single cohesive effect, whether they are in a painting, sculpture or installation. The form is representational as well as dimensional, which means that you are using your two-dimensional space (the paper or canvas) to create an image representing a three-dimensional object. To create this effect your image needs to have "weight" and occupy "space," which means that the form needs to interact with its surroundings. For example, a vase should be shaded to look round as well as having appropriate reflections or shadows from its light source.
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Instructions
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Draw or paint a two-dimensional version of the form. This should give you an idea of the location; for example, a teddy bear on the floor in front of a door. The wall and door are backdrop and may even be two-dimensional, but the bear, as the visual center or "object" of the painting, should become three-dimensional in this context. An "object" can also be a person or animal, it simply means the center of attention.
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Discover the light source within the painting. Is there an open door, a lamp or a window? What direction is the light coming from? Use this info to find what parts of the object should be highlighted and which will fall in the shadows.
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Use a color or shade scale to paint the object. Your object should naturally take on a three-dimensional form as you shadow it in.
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Paint the background, keeping the form in mind. Remember that objects cast shadows and occupy space. A person on a bed has weight and dents the pillows while casting a shadow on the comforter or wall. Don't forget these tiny details, since they will determine how successful your use of form in painting will be.
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