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shape

By Shelley Esaak, About.com

Definition:

(noun) - A shape is an element of art. Specifically, it is an enclosed space, the boundaries of which are defined by other elements of art (i.e.: lines, colors, values, textures, etc.).

Shapes are limited to two dimensions: length and width. Geometric shapes - circles, rectangles, squares, triangles and so on - have the clear edges one achieves when using tools to create such shapes. Organic shapes have natural, less well-defined edges (think: an amoeba, or a cloud).

Pronunciation: shayp
Examples: "You're in pretty good shape for the shape you are in." - Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss

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