Abstract Shape Aesthetics: Contour, Complexity, Motion, and Individual Variability

The aesthetics of abstract shapes — shapes devoid of meaning or familiarity — offer an intriguing subject for study, as it can offer insights into how we perceive and appreciate visual stimuli, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of visual cognition and the nature of artistic experience. This research investigates the impact of contour type (angular versus rounded edges) and complexity (number of vertices) on aesthetic preferences, including their potential interaction. Additionally, we explored the influence of movement as an aesthetic variable, given its potential to enhance complex- ity, though the relationship between movement and complexity remains unexplored. Our findings indicate that both contour type and complexity significantly influence preferences, with shapes fea- turing curved contours and fewer vertices being favoured. This highlights the aesthetic appeal of curvature and simplicity. Contrary to expectations, movement did not have a noticeable effect on aesthetic judgements. While no overall interaction between contour type and complexity was found, this lack of interaction was obscured by significant individual differences. Specifically, within indi- viduals, strong interactions between contour type and complexity were observed. It appears that these individual differences are due more to the varying emphasis (dominance) placed on each variable rather than a difference in the preference for specific characteristics. Future research should further analyse these individual differences to understand the nuanced dynamics of aesthetic preferences.