Positive & Negative Space - St Johns Cathedral

Week 3 of the first Big Binge for 2013 and this group is coming along in leaps and bounds. The techniques we discovered this week were definitely in contrast to last week and our sketchers are stretching themselves with grace. Below is a recap of what we worked through. The results of which were sublime. 

Techniques we focused on:

Positive & Negative Space 

• Thinking about depth & tone we were seeking out the boldest contrasts in light inside and outside of the Cathedral. Positive and negative space is a very powerful and dramatic tool that involves a certain level of imagination and careful observation. One trick we found is that when using this technique it is best bitten off in chunks. Sketch out your subject first in light (but confident) lines and then take the time to observe where your light source is. Adding depth through tone can be achieved in a manner of ways. So far we've looked at soft shading and different hatching techniques. Choose your technique according to what you want to say. Lines are expressive. Lines are your language. Lines are your tools for constructing your visual comment about the world around you.

Composition

The Cathedral is a very grand space. With the subject being so vertical in height, it is necessary to consider the elements of composition in order to make the best use of your page. 

• Rule of thirds 
• Sketching your composition in the corner of your page takes 10 seconds and may save you much time.
• Is your image dynamic or static? This is determined by whether your composition is symmetrical or asymmetrical. An asymmetrical composition allows the eye to dart around the page with ease. 

* Thanks to the people of the St Johns Cathedral for your hospitality and warm understanding of our need to Binge within your amazing place.