The Edit – Visual Collection – Shapes

Moodboard

The internet is full of inspiration. Every day I discover beautiful art, design, and architecture – but often these little treasures get lost in the digital clutter. With ‘The Edit’ I want to share a carefully curated selection of outstanding artworks, stunning architecture, and inspiring designs that catch my eye in my daily research.

This issue is all about shapes and forms. Shapes play a central role in art and design, as they are the fundamental elements from which visual compositions are created. In art, shapes create a connection between the artist and the viewer. They can be abstract, organic or geometric and convey different moods and meanings.

Image no. 1 shows an abstract sculpture, which combines various geometric shapes and materials. It combines two geometric shapes, resulting in a harmonious interplay of structure and space. The combination of the clean, rectangular base and the curved, semicircular upper half gives the sculpture an aesthetic balance.

Abstract Sculpture
Image 1: Abstract Sculpture made with Midjourney
Visual Collection | Shapes | Aesence
Image 2: © Still Life Chair by Marcel Sigel, 2020
Minimalist Lamp Design - K Lamp by Vitamin
Image 3: © K Lamp by Vitamin

In design, shapes are just as essential – here they influence not only aesthetics but also functionality. But how a design is captured photographically also plays a decisive role. In picture no. 2 we see the Still Life Chair by Marcel Sigel. A special detail here is how the backrest curves around the chair.
Image No. 3 also shows very nicely how function and aesthetics can merge with the help of well-chosen forms. The K Lamp is a minimalist lamp designed by the British brand Vitamin. It consists of two parts – a shade that acts as a diffuser and a base that houses the lamp.

Contrasts as visual harmony

Contrasts in shapes are central elements that create dynamic tension in both art and design. The two artworks below illustrate this in a fascinating way. In the left-hand work by Spanish painter Enrich R., the minimalist composition is dominated by a softly curved, organic line that runs gently across the dark background of the canvas.

In contrast, the work on the right (image 5) shows a combination of strict geometric shapes with clear lines and hard edges. These forms are much more structured and convey a sense of order and rationality. The contrast between the gentle, soft line in Enrich R.’s work and the strict geometry of the work on the right illustrates how different forms can evoke different emotional responses.

Enrich R, KENWOOD, 2023, Mixed media on canvas, 190 × 175 cm © The Artist, Image Courtesy Alzueta Gallery
Image 4: © Enrich R, KENWOOD, 2023, Mixed media on canvas, 190 × 175 cm © The Artist, Image Courtesy Alzueta Gallery
Abstract Painting
Image 5: Abstract Painting made with Midjourney

Aesence is an independent art and design publication dedicated to minimalist aesthetics. Founded out of a deep appreciation and fascination, Aesence strives to be an inspiring, informative and truly useful resource for its readers.