Space exists between, around, and within all objects. There are two types of space: positive space, which are the shapes or forms of interest, and negative space, which is the empty area around objects. Shapes are defined by the negative space surrounding them, and understanding the relationship between objects and space is important for defining forms. Artists can manipulate space to create the illusion of depth on a two-dimensional surface.

1. SPACE
Space is the area
between, around,
above, below, or
within objects. ALL
objects take up
space. YOU are a
living, breathing
form moving
through space.

3. POSITIVE SPACE: The
shapes or forms of
interest. This ram (goat?)
is positive space.
NEGATIVE SPACE: the empty
space around the little guy

4. Shapes and forms are defined by the
SPACE around and within them. They
depend on space for their existence.
This is why it is important to
understand the relationship of space to
shapes and forms.

5. Let’s look at a
few more
examples of
negative
space. Do you
see objects
overlapping?

7. How has this artist created the illusion of 3-D space in this painting?

8. We can use SPACE to create the illusion of a 3-D space on a 2-D (flat) surface
“Le Pont de l’Europe” by Gustave Caillebotte (1876)

11. Space can also refer to the feeling of depth. Real space is
three-dimensional.

12. In visual art, when we create the feeling or illusion of depth, we
call it space.