Positive and Negative Space
In many basic drawing classes, students learn that there are
three basic elements of a composition: the frame, the positive and the negative
space.
Negative space is, quite simply, the space that surrounds an
object in an image. Just as important as that object itself, negative space
helps to define the boundaries of positive space and brings balance to a
composition. Negative space may be
most evident when the space around a subject, forms an interesting or
artistically relevant shape. The use of negative space is a key element of
artistic composition.
In addition to being considered in flat visual arts, negative
space is also a factor in three dimensional compositions. In Japan, for
example, negative space in garden design, with people referring to it as “ma”,
a Japanese word for “gap.” Negative space is also considered in dance choreography and
the positioning of actors on stage in productions ranging from opera to
monologues. Musicians use it as silence between pieces.
In typography, negative space is very important, whether a
typographer is composing a magazine article or an art broadside. Depending on
how the piece is composed, negative space can change the meaning in a number of
ways. When poorly used, it may make a piece hard to read or unpleasant to look at,
while well-balanced examples may draw attention to particularly important or
notable pieces of the composition. In some instances, it can become as notable
as the positive space, especially in the case of some company logos.
Understanding positive and negative space is crucial because it
can help an artist understand a key concept all throughout art: The absence
of information is still information. Sometimes you can tell just as much
about a subject by looking at negative space as positive space.
To give as example of how negative space was also used in art
history we can refer to Leonardo's The Last Supper.
Of late, the negative space between Jesus (in the middle of the
painting) and the person immediately to his right has caused a fair amount of interest. This “V"-shaped negative space is credited with hiding
secrets, by some.
Negative Space can be wisely used to balance a composition as well
as to bring in harmony. It has an impact on the viewer sometimes consciously or
sub-consciously.
-Mandira Sanghi
Artist and Art Columnist
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