Space

Negative Space Hands

HB Graphite Pencil, 6B Graphite Pencil, Multi-Media Paper

13 1/4 x 9 3/4"

Reflections

Graphite Stick, Ballpoint Pen, Multi-Media Paper

11 1/4 x 7 3/4"

Artist Statement (Zentangle Value Strip, upper left)

Zentangle Value Strip

Ballpoint Pen, Paper

4 13/16" x 5/8"



My Zentangle value strip took inspiration from two different cultures to create these patterns. I looked at henna designs and their shapes, and traditional Māori tattoos, with a different aesthetic. I used both of these as inspirations, as well as other Zentangle designs one of my close friends has created in the past. I was inspired by her neat intricacy and the style of her Zentangles.

I started with a bar outline, then added the squares. I filled in each with ballpoint pen, from darkest to lightest, each pattern coming to mind as I went. I experimented with different lines, from whimsical to geometric, and complex to minimalistic.

My project started with lots of lines, and I had to figure out how to use less lines to create a different value, but also keep a pattern to provide interest.

If I were to take more steps on this piece, I would add more to each side of the bar.

Artist Statement (Negative Space Hands, lower left)

Negative Space Hands

HB Graphite Pencil, 6B Graphite Pencil, Multi-Media Paper

13 1/4" x 9 3/4"



I started this piece with the hand on the right, thinking of finger shadows and trying to provide spaces between by fingers to call more attention to the negative space. I liked the idea of paying attention to each line and detail of the hand, and focusing more on the negative space than the positive space, which made the project less daunting.

I liked doing this project because I so often struggle with drawing hands, and this technique helped me realize another way to approach that. I also liked that this technique is like looking at things from a different perspective, something I strive to do with a lot of things in my life. It showed me that there are shapes where you think there are none, there is more than meets the eye.

I used an HB graphite pencil to sketch the hands, then went over those lines with a more definite 6B pencil, and then shaded the negative space around it. I used the idea of negative space by looking at the space between my hands when I was drawing, and not the lines of and on my hands.

My project started with sketched lines, then I erased and re-sketched them in sections, then went over with the same technique but stronger and fewer lines. I then went over with a ballpoint pen to emphasize the outline, especially against the shading. I started shaded and faded outward to draw attention to the negative space. If I were to add to this project, I would probably work on the shading and create a smoother transition and touch it up. Other than that I would leave the piece as/is, because I rather like the simplicity and the attention it guides to the negative space, and for that reason I would not add any other lines or colours.