New
New
Natural forms in graphic communication
I can review the range of ways designers have been inspired by natural forms in graphic design.
Lesson 3 of 6
New
New
- Year 10
Natural forms in graphic communication
I can review the range of ways designers have been inspired by natural forms in graphic design.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The inherent beauty of natural forms provides graphic designers with endless inspiration.
- The diversity of colours, textures, and shapes found in nature can lead to visually striking designs.
- Natural forms often use flowing, asymmetrical elements that contrast geometric rigidity, enabling dynamic compositions.
Keywords
Natural forms - shapes, patterns, and structures found in nature (e.g. leaves, shells, plants)
Asymmetry - a lack of symmetry; when two sides of something are not identical but still balanced visually
Common misconception
Graphic design is mostly digital, so nature isn’t really relevant.
Graphic design often draws from organic, natural inspiration - many professional designs use textures, forms, and concepts from nature to create emotional or symbolic meaning.
Encourage students to talk through their design breakdowns - verbalising their thinking helps develop their visual literacy and deepens contextual understanding.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Access to the internet or a library of art books. Sketchbook or paper for recording ideas, pencils, pens.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a physical form that can be seen or felt called?
What is a physical form that can be seen or felt called?
the subject
the product
the item
Q2.Graphic communication involves making messages that consider how people will perceive them.
Graphic communication involves making messages that consider how people will perceive them.
Q3.True or false? Graphic designers only include an object in their designs when advertising a product.
True or false? Graphic designers only include an object in their designs when advertising a product.
Q4.Which designer focuses on simplified object shapes in minimal graphic compositions to elevate their significance?
Which designer focuses on simplified object shapes in minimal graphic compositions to elevate their significance?
Paul Rand
Peter Blake
Q5.Which artist uses familiar objects and creates personal connections to how they have appeared and been experienced in their personal life through illustrated stories?
Which artist uses familiar objects and creates personal connections to how they have appeared and been experienced in their personal life through illustrated stories?
Martine Syms
Barbara Walker
Jenny Holzer
Q6.Which of the following best describes the techniques graphic designers use to develop a distinct visual language in their work?
Which of the following best describes the techniques graphic designers use to develop a distinct visual language in their work?
the history of art movements and the biographies of artists
the use of digital software and the selection of commercial materials
