Organic forms take their inspiration from nature. The swirl of water, the undulation of vines and the spiral of a seashell translate to organic curvilinear design. Organic design is the expression of movement in a static form. The sinuous, sweeping lines of an Alphonse Mucha poster of the Art Nouveau period and the distinct architecture of Antoni Gaudi illustrate the use of curves as organic form.
A curve as a radius of a circle is a formal element of design. When curves are used in a rigid geometric or measured way, the result is structural in nature, giving an architectural flavor to design. Curves may repeat up and down in a pattern of a standing wave with no variation. In architecture you may have a formal arrangement of repeated arches down the length of a portico. The repeated arches of the Roman Coliseum are an example of curves used as a formal design element.
Industrial design combines art, science and engineering. The use of curves as an element of design in applied science can be seen in common household objects from the curving handle of a soup ladle to the shape of your washer and dryer. Graceful curving lines soften the look of appliances and furniture bringing thoughtfulness of design to everyday living. You will also find strong curves in the design of home exercise equipment. Avoiding sharp angular edges in the home gym is not only aesthetically pleasing, it is also a safety issue.
Book covers, playbills and posters are designed by graphic artists and illustrators who make use of curvilinear designs. A quick look at the font menu on your word processing program will reveal dozens of curvilinear fonts that were designed by a graphic artist. Currency and stamps are embellished with curves and swirls. Two of the most well known illustrators who made frequent use of long sweeping curves are Aubrey Beardsley and Alphonse Mucha.