FORM in sign language

There are a few ways of expressing the concepts of "form" in American Sign Language (ASL). Plus a lovely art on the theme of "form" and "emptiness".

ASL signs for "form"

How to sign "form" in ASL:

Meaning: Form as in art form (the shape and structure of an object).

Pronunciation (sign description): Two-handed held in space, palms facing each other, moves downward a bit with a shape of motion. The handshape may be "10" or "5", depending on the subjects.

Context / usage examples: "form is one of some elements of art".

Meaning: a form or document with blanks to be filled in.

Pronunciation (sign description): Both "F" hands held in space, palms facing roughly outward, tips of forefingers and thumbs in contact, diverge apart and then move downward.

Context / usage examples: "complete your application form".

Deaf Art

The quote "Form is Emptiness; Emptiness is Form" is from the Heart Sutra which was translated into ASL with the movements captured in light on camera.

Form is Emptiness
Photocalligraphy series by Jolanta Lapiak, 2007

"Photocalligraphy: Form is Emptiness; Emptiness is Form" (2007) by Jolanta Lapiak is one of the photocalligraphy series where movements in ASL translation are captured in light on the camera.

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