How to Draw Using Negative and Positive Space

Draw a simple outline drawing with a pencil, pen or even in a computer art package., Decide if you want to colour the background or the subject., Colour your drawing.

4 Steps 1 min read Easy

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Draw a simple outline drawing with a pencil

    The design doesn't have to be overly complicated; when working with negative and positive space, simplicity often works best.
  2. Step 2: pen or even in a computer art package.

    The background is the negative space, and the subject is the positive space.

    By colouring just one, you'll create stark contrast between the two, and change the effect of your piece. , Observe how the switched colors can change the overall impression of the drawing; to get the full effect, you can make two identical images with different colouring choices and display them together.
  3. Step 3: Decide if you want to colour the background or the subject.

  4. Step 4: Colour your drawing.

Detailed Guide

The design doesn't have to be overly complicated; when working with negative and positive space, simplicity often works best.

The background is the negative space, and the subject is the positive space.

By colouring just one, you'll create stark contrast between the two, and change the effect of your piece. , Observe how the switched colors can change the overall impression of the drawing; to get the full effect, you can make two identical images with different colouring choices and display them together.

About the Author

R

Ryan Anderson

Experienced content creator specializing in practical skills guides and tutorials.

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