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Negative space in abstract painting
Negative space in drawing helps immensely to define and measure the positive image. In Painting however it creates impact and power by defining typically highlighted elements of a painting – often those important elements that we want the eye to draw upon. Negative space tends to recede and of course positive space or (elements) come forward.
It is interesting to discover for yourself how certain colors work towards this negative recessive part. These colors are often muted and often darker in tone and thus help to thrust an image forward. Some artists think in terms of contrast which is fine, though heightening awareness of those negative spaces and interweaving them adds a certain vitality to a painting. Balancing negative and positive spaces should always be considered, even in a free-flowing abstract piece. It is even true with work by Jackson Pollack. Studying his work you will see very definite balance of these elements. This is striking considering the apparent randomness of his so called drip paintings.
One interesting practice is to start with negative forms and let them develop the positive forms rather than the reverse. By giving these negative forms good shape and by balancing them, the formation of the positive elements will gain even richer, more dramatic force.
Painting example by Picasso.
Article by Michael A. Wilson