06/2024
Materials: Black Construction Paper… Exacto Knife… 22″x16″ board…
This project focused on the Japanese design concept called Notan. This concept focuses on the relationship of light and dark shapes in a two dimensional composition. This can be created using paint, ink or cut out paper, but in this case, we will only be using cut out paper.
We created three different Notans, using either organic or geometric shapes. Asymmetrical, Symmetrical and Radial Balance. Asymmetrical is where the sides of the composition are not equal but hold the same visual weight. Symmetrical has both sides equal to each other. Then radial is where all four sides are equal, often times coming out from the center.
The first one is Asymmetrical. A lot of my inspiration in these pieces is towards space and it is heavily shown in this piece. I represented the odd organic shapes that may be found within planets while also including the stars. The piece itself is also asymmetrical, which adds to the asymmetrical value and also to the art itself.
Next is symmetrical. It was a bit of a struggle to slide my exacto knife in curved ways, but in the end, I was able to create something that I felt also had some space representations. My aim was to create some kind of black hole, but was also told that in a way it gave some space creature vibes.
Finally, the radial piece. Once again I created a star, but with a slight twist. My inspiration here also included the ideas of a kaleidoscope. It contains many geometric shapes and to create something remotely like one felt just right to me.
Then all three pieces together side by side.
