PROJECT 03: Figure-Ground Relationship (Space is Shape)

Project Due Date

Samimy's Class: Mon, Sept 15th
Lambert's Class: Tue, Sept 16th

Project Description

Create 3 abstract (non-representational) compositions using different shapes and value. Use the three types of figure/ground relationship to contrast forms against each other, as well as merge them together. Crop, combine, repeat, rotate, enlarge, and/or reduce the shapes. Think about the following concepts and relationships:

• Figure/ground relationship- stable/reversable/ambiguous
• Balance- symmetrical/asymmetrica/all-over, equalized tension
• Composition- dynamic/static
• Vertical/diagonal/horizontal
• Hierarchy (emphasis)
• Movement/directionality

The relationships between black and white must be as follow:

• Composition 1 with 25% black (whiter composition)
• Composition 2 with 50% black (balance between black and white)
• Composition 3 with 75% black (darker composition)

Materials

• black construction paper
• x-acto knife/scissors
• rubber cement
• 9inch x 9inch paper (3)

Process

Homework- 
Start doing thumbnails with pencil or black construction paper in your sketchbook, at least 3 for each composition (total 9 thumbnails on sketchbook.)

Class time-
At start of class, consult with your teacher and select the best pieces. Choose 3 final designs that distribute positive and negative space into fluid, balanced compositions following the three required relationships. Note: You can explore enlarging the whole composition or some parts, cropping, adding or deleting shapes.

Re-create the three selected compositions with black and/or white construction paper. Use the same type of paper for your 3 compositions, so you do not have any change in white/black shades.

Students Samples