Negative Space in Jewelry Design
What is Negative Space?
Negative space is the blank space surrounding the subject in a work of art. More commonly associated with photography and other two-dimensional arts, the concept of negative space extends to various artistic expressions, including jewelry-making, sculpture and even manicures! Explore how an awareness of negative space can influence your jewelry design choices and spark fresh creative ideas.
Why is Negative Space Worth Considering When Designing Jewelry?
Negative space is important—arguably as important as the subject of the design itself. It not only imparts balance to a simple design but also offers visual relief as we view complex or intricate subjects .
Another delightful advantage of negative space is the ability to craft images within images or engage in the art of "seeing what isn't there." Consider iconic logos as examples. The NBC peacock, for instance, takes shape through the strategic placement of white space between colorful teardrops. In the FedEx logo, the arrow cleverly embedded between the "E" and the "x" comes from a deliberate choice to utilize negative space. Interestingly, even in the Japanese version, they made sure the arrow is in the empty space between the characters. The No Kid Hungry® logo employs the Rubin vase concept, crafting a dual image that resembles both an apple and two children's profiles facing each other within a single picture. Regardless of how negative space is utilized, the outcome is unforgettable. Individuals enjoy uncovering illusions and experiencing a sense of "inclusion" in the concept.
Wondering how to incorporate negative space into your jewelry designs? Explore these four techniques to integrate negative space into your favorite jewelry styles for eye-catching appeal:
1. Geometrics
The use of geometric shapes has been a popular and enduring motif in jewelry design. Make the most of negative space by fashioning open and minimalist geometric shapes. With crisp lines tracing a well-defined shape, both you and your customers will be able to appreciate what is—and isn't—there. The geometric use of negative space is commonly employed in minimalist designs, seen in simple wire forms and the artful stacking of wire rings at various points on the finger. This technique adds an extra layer of intrigue to the overall aesthetic.
2. Modernity
Contemporary architects and abstract artists often harness the power of negative space to evoke depth and dimension. Craft cutting-edge cuff bracelets and rings, incorporating the structural silhouettes of modern architecture. Draw inspiration from suspension bridges by integrating slender chains that connect to various points within your jewelry design. Use layers to create the appearance of depth. Capitalize on the latest asymmetrical earring trends with a chic twist: choose one earring in a sleek, solid shape and its counterpart as a stylish outline, mirroring the original form.
3. Framing
Framing in jewelry design differs from outlining. It entails using the shapes of secondary components to direct attention to the focal point of the piece, enhancing its visual impact. You can achieve this by using techniques like creating open spaces, adding bead frames, playing with contrasting colors or sticking to simple black and white. These methods help isolate and define elements while adding a bit of drama to the mix.
4. Illusions
While the concept of creating illusions using negative space is more commonly associated with logo design than jewelry, don't let that discourage you. In practice, integrating this approach into jewelry design has the potential to distinguish your work and make your creations truly exceptional. Imply a shape with other shapes, create silhouettes, use unique cutouts or make an open ring or cuff bracelet where the two ends create an image in the negative space. It's all about absence actually being presence.
Wirework, in particular, lends itself to negative space designs. Suggest a shape through the arrangement of other shapes, craft intriguing silhouettes, experiment with distinctive cutouts or design an open ring or cuff bracelet where the meeting ends form an image within the negative space. The essence lies in the idea that absence can exude a powerful presence .
Unlock new creative possibilities in jewelry-making by embracing negative space! Experiment with negative space in necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more, transforming the negative into a source of positive attention.
Shop for Your Materials Here:
Have a question regarding this project? Email Customer Service.
Copyright Permissions
All works of authorship (articles, videos, tutorials and other creative works) are from the Fire Mountain Gems and Beads® Collection, and permission to copy is granted for non-commercial educational purposes only. All other reproduction requires written permission. For more information, please email copyrightpermission@firemtn.com.