Positive and Negative Space in Art

Explore positive and negative space in art with this simple black-and-white art project. Using a black marker and our ready-to-print template it couldn't be easier to dip your toes into this fundamental element of art. 

 

Learning the basics of art allows children to explore new vocabulary, become familiar with new art concepts, and develop observation skills. 

Exploring the different elements of art such as positive and negative space is a fantastic way to introduce children to various art styles and artists. You can show them how every artist uses the elements of art differently, creating completely unique artworks despite utilizing the same principles.

Elements of Art - Space

Explore the other elements of art alongside this negative and positive art project using our elements of art printable pack. Head to the Messy Little Monster Shop to get the full pack of projects or scroll down to find out how to make your own easy positive and negative space art project. 

What is positive and negative space in art?

The positive space in an artwork is the focal point; often, it's an area where the artist places an object or shapes. The negative space is the background and all the area around the object or shapes. 

Easy Positive and Negative Art

Positive and Negative Space in Art - Supplies:

• Positive and negative space printable
• Black Marker
• Glue (Optional)

How to create your own negative and positive art project

STEP 1: Get the positive and negative space printable.

The best way to keep this positive and negative space art project hassle-free is to use our printable. You'll find the link at bottom of these directions. Print it out on regular white paper.

If you are feeling adventurous, you could of course draw your own simple image to use for this positive and negative space art project. If you draw your own image ensure that the same simple image is traced onto both halves of your paper. 

STEP 2: Color the negative space

Start by coloring the negative space on your printable template with a black marker. Remember that the negative space is the background. 

Once you have finished you see the subject of the house and trees clearly in white. 

STEP 3: Color the positive space

Now onto the next part of the art project. Using the same black marker, color the other half of the printable. This time color the opposite areas to show the positive space of the image.

The completed positive and negative artwork looks really effective. 

Optional - If you want to take this art project one step further you could mount the finished artwork on contrasting backgrounds. The top part of the artwork with the negative space colored black could be mounted on white paper and the bottom part of the artwork with the positive space colored black could be mounted on black paper!

GET YOUR POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE SPACE ART PRINTABLE BELOW


To get the positive and negative art worksheet for free click on the link below and use the discount code- space. For personal or classroom use only. Not for redistribution. All images are copyrighted. Thank you.

This positive and negative art project is such an easy way to show kids about space in art in an interactive way! We hope you enjoy exploring this fun element of art.

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