Negative Space Drawings

Artist Statement

For this project, to first develop an understanding for negative space, (our main focus for the unit), we traced leaves from outside. We then went back and added a pattern encircling the white space of the leaves as practice. For our first summative grade of the year, we were asked to look through a viewfinder and draw the spaces between chairs arranged on a table in front of the class. This would form one connected shape and create negative space. Afterward, we were asked to draw a scene, narrative or design around and between the outline of the chairs. I began using a pencil to create a light outline of the shapes, planning on filling most of the page, then later when in with black sharpie to darken the lines. For this project, I used red watercolors mixed with black to make maroon, as well as light gray watercolor paints.

In my artwork, I tried to incorporate a few of the elements of art to create the principles of design. I used line to create pattern, as seen inside a few different shapes in the piece. I used space, (negative/positive), as seen in the outline of the chairs. I believe there is a sense of balance in my art, both sides figuratively weigh the same. Through the two colors I used that fill almost the entire page, unity can also be observed in my art. Though it was not purposeful, there are a few different hues of red and gray hidden in certain parts of the page as well. These darker colors together created contrast and even emphasis around the chairs by really making them stand out.