Elements of Art: Shape and Pattern

Shapes in art

Shapes are flat forms made when lines meet. Artists use shapes to build pictures and designs. The KICD Creative Arts curriculum asks Grade 5 learners to create shapes and patterns and explain their meaning.

Types of shapes

• Geometric: circle, square, triangle, rectangle; neat and regular.
• Organic: leaves, clouds, puddles; free and irregular.

What is a pattern?

A pattern repeats shapes, lines or colours in order. Examples:

• Red, white, red, white
• Circle, triangle, circle, triangle

Patterns in Kenyan culture

• Maasai beadwork uses bright bands of red, blue and white.
• Kiondo baskets show woven zigzags.
• Kitenge and kanga cloth have bold repeated motifs.
• Lamu doors have carved patterns.

Making a repeat pattern

1. Cut a simple shape (for example a leaf) from thin cardboard.
2. Dip it in paint and print it on paper.
3. Repeat in a row, leaving equal space.
4. Make a second row with a different colour.

Rhythm and balance

Repeating shapes creates rhythm, like drumbeats you can see. Balance means the design looks even on both sides.

Care in art

Use materials wisely, clean brushes and display your finished work proudly.

Try it

• Draw a border using three different shapes in repeat.
• Print a pattern using a potato or leaf.
• Describe a pattern you saw on Kenyan clothing.