Positive and Negative Space

Artists talk about space in two different ways: 1.Positive Space 2.Negative Space Can you think of what the definitions for positive and negative space might be?

Positive Space Positive space is the space that an object occupies. On the left hand side picture, the positive space is the area that the bottles take up. On the right hand side picture, the positive space is shown as the black objects.

Negative Space Negative space is opposite of positive. Negative space is the space around an object. On the left hand side picture, the negative space is the white area around the bottles. On the right hand side picture, the negative space is shown as the black area surrounding the bottle.

Does the image show positive or Negative space??

Artists often use positive space and negative space to manipulate an object. For instance, an artist might deliberately leave a cutout area white, which would be a negative space. Then, they might add some kind of pattern in that space to trick the viewer’s eyes.

Pattern making in doodles Have you ever drawn a doodle in class? Artists often use doodles in all sorts of different artworks. Why do you think artists think that doodles are so important. Are doodles meaningless? Or are doodles a reflection of who someone is?

Take a look at these artists’ doodles

Doodles often use patterns. Take a look at these pattern doodles.

Assignment You will receive one large piece of paper. Fold your paper horizontally in half. Tape the 2 side edges shut On one side of your folder lightly draw out your name so that it has volume. Your name is your negative space. DO NOT FILL IT IN WITH COLOUR OR DESIGNS. IT IS TO REMAIN WHITE SPACE. The images you draw around your name will create the positive space The remaining space will be filled with doodles that represent you. –What you do in your free time. Ie: sports, clubs etc –What kind of music you like. Ie: song lyrics, band logos etc –What are your favorite foods? Ie: pizza, burgers etc –Your favorite colours Your images MUST be school appropriate. Folders with inappropriate images will not be marked Marks You will be marked out of 25 marks. Marks are given for neatness, creativity and successful use of positive negative space