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Notan is a Japanese word that means ‘dark-light harmony’. It is defined as the interaction between positive (light) and negative (dark) space. A Notan also shows balance, the yin/yang symbol is a classic example of this.  Japanese calligraphy echoes a Notan with the use of monochromatic ink washes and brushstrokes that emphasize the light and dark balance of a notan.

Artists use ’notan study’ to explore light and dark elements in a painting, it is an abstract framework that the structure of the painting is built, without the distraction of color, texture or finer details. If you are interested in learning how to make a powerful notan, this lesson from the Virtual Art Academy is very helpful. 

Using dark colors with black and light color with whites is known as a two-value notan. The famous painting “Whistler’s Mother 1871”, by James Abbott McNeill Whistler, is an example of a two-value notan study.  A notan is used to filter out all other elements so that the balance of light and dark elements is revealed. A notan represents the most basic abstract design of a painting. More information about the art is offered via an Aug. 24, 2015, New Yorker article by Peter Schjeldahl entitled “The mysteries of “Whistler’s Mother.”

Students in art I class were asked to use these principles to ‘expand the square’. They were given a 6″ x 6″ square and instructions to create a notan. The requirements were to create positive/negative interaction on all four sides, demonstrate an understanding of positive and negative space, and use creative thinking and problem solving.

Donavan Guglielmana, a first-year art student, completed this project, fully understanding the concept of notan design. His project is a balance of light and dark with complex, intricate pieces. It is hard to cut out so many small pieces and to place them in the correct space. His attention to those details made his project stand out. He did an amazing job.

For more Feature Art visit: Feature Art No. 1, 2021-22: Painting with paper

To read another Feather article visit: Alumna Caleigh Alday wins Miss Clovis title