Artistic Aesthetic elements cont..., Shapes and forms

Shapes are two dimensional and geometric. When you draw a circle, square, or triangle you are drawing a shape. Forms are three dimensional and geometric. These include cylinders, pyramids, and cones. I would say that the most prevailing shape in bonsai is conical.

conical

Semi spherical

Spherical form

Besides the obvious silhouette made by a form they are important in that they can add to motion. In sculpting rhythm is important. Adding forms to sculpture gives rhythm. Repetition of shapes in varying sizes creates rhythm.

The trunk and foliage are two different cones

Rhythmic design

Shapes and forms are easier to understand than some other elements. The key is to use them to guide the eye. Cheers.