LESSON 6: COMPOSITION OF FORM AND MOTIF

STRUCTURE

6.0 OBJECTIVE

6.1 INTRODUCTION

6.2 INITIAL SKETCHES

6.3 SUMMING UP

6.4 TERMINAL QUESTIONS

6.5 REFERENCES AND SUGGESTED FURTHER READING

6.6 GLOSSARY

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6. COMPOSITION OF FORM AND MOTIF In the previous two lessons you had learnt about forms, basic geometric shapes

and compositions. You had also learnt about Motifs and their different types. Now in this lesson, we will learn how a Motif, which is the most basic unit of a pattern, can be developed with reference to any given theme.

6.0 Objective

After going through this lesson, you will:

• Acquire an understanding of how motifs are developed from a given theme.

6.1 Introduction

A motif (Fig. 6.1) is the most basic unit or the smallest unit of pattern. It has a distinct identity of its own. Each motif develops from a geometrical shape or a combination of different geometrical shapes. Motifs are of different types. In this lesson, we will learn how motifs are developed from a given theme.

6.2 Initial sketches

Initial Sketches are made by seeing a live object with reference to the given topic, such as nature. Visuals of tree, leaf, and flower are drawn in the initial sketches. Taking inspiration from the initial sketches, you can derive a stylized form. This stylized form is a Motif, which could be put in a definite repeat to form a pattern as shown in figs. 6.2 to 6.9.

Fig. 6.1

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Activity

1. Taking cue from nature draw an initial sketch and then make a motif out of it.

6.3 Summing Up

Initial sketches are made which are mostly inspired from nature. They help to develop a motif, the smallest unit of the pattern having a distinct identity of its own.

6.4 Terminal Questions

1. Fill in the blanks:

i) Each motif develops from a _____________ shape.

ii) _______________ sketches are made by seeing a live object.

iii) Motif could be put in a definite repeat to form a ______________.

Fig. 6.3 Fig. 6.2 Fig. 6.4 Fig. 6.5

Fig. 6.7 Fig. 6.8 Fig. 6.9 Fig. 6.6

Figs. 6.2 – 6.9: Motifs

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6.5 References and Suggested Further Reading

1. Betala, R. 2005. Design Comprehension and Visualization. Ane Books, New Delhi.

2. Yates, M. 1998. Textile: A Hand book for designers. W.W. Norton & Co., New York.

6.6 Glossary

1. Theme: A subject being discussed.

2. Inspirational: The process of being inspired; a sudden clever idea.

3. Stylized: Represented in an artificial style.