Positive Elements and Negative Elements:

The definitions of the Elements; Volume, Plane, Line and Point apply to tangible form i.e.  Positive elements. However, the Basic visual elements can also include spatial enclosures i.e. Negative elements.

Positive and Negative elements are similar in that they can both be described as visual components with more or less defined boundaries.

A positive element form cannot be perceived unless it exists in a spatial context and vice versa. i.e. Form and Space are complimentary. One cannot exist without the other.

Negative elements are defined within the space between any of the positive elements.

We are raised to see and discern objects rather than the space between them. Therefore, it is more difficult to comprehend and perceive negative spaces.

The elements of negative of spatial enclosures are more varied than the positive elements and the strength of the spatial enclosures is dependent on the strength of spatial articulation of the surrounding positive forms. They are dependent on movements and forces inherent in the relation between the elements.