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BLACK SQUARES

This unit provides an introduction to the creation, analysis and documentation of a simple composition, using the attributes of scale, value, proportion, size, dimension and depth within a specific format. Concepts of positive and negative space with regard to figure/ground relationships are explored. Emphasis of the exercise is to develop observation, visual documentation and vocabulary skills.

Using 4 or more black squares in each solution, students create a series of graphic compositions that best express the meaning of the following words: grow, dependent, order, contradict, playful, precarious, quiet, and congested. Click on an image to see additional examples of student work.

grow composition

grow

playful composition

playful

dependent composition

dependent

precarious composition

precarious

order composition

order

dependent composition

quiet

contradict composition

contradict

congested composition

congested