KQED: Element of Space

This video explains that space is the area in which the artwork is organized. It includes the area within art and can include the area outside the art as well. It also explains the difference of positive and negative space. This video would be fun to include in a lesson about the element of space for an upper elementary/ middle school classroom.

Some Definitions! *From KQED Video

Positive Space: The area the objects actually occupy (for three-dimensional objects).

Negative Space: All the other areas between or around the objects (for three-dimensional objects).

Two-dimensional objects can also create the illusion of space with certain techniques!

My Artwork

For this week’s art challenge, we were tasked to follow a video tutorial (I’ve attached it below!). This video explains how to draw using one-point perspective.

Materials:

  • Paper
  • Pencil
  • Eraser
  • Ruler

I really enjoyed this activity of drawing in one-point perspective. It was enjoyable and I love how my art turned out! Since this process is unfamiliar to me, it took a bit longer than expected. However, I really enjoyed the process!

Critical Analysis

Brian Jungen

Brian Jungen is an Indigenous artist. His artwork is created from everyday materials and they display an important message. Both these pieces of art demonstrate the element of space (as well as the element of form) really well! The first sculpture is called “Shape Shifter” and the second is called “Masks from Nike Running Shoes.” I would use one of these pieces of art, or both, for a critical analysis for Grade 6 and up!

Some Extra Resources!

I really like the idea of teaching one-point perspective to illustrate the element of space. I found a webpage that has an example of a one-point perspective lesson where students can add some colour to their artwork! This would be fun for a Grade 5/6 classroom!