Tips for Adding White Space to Your Journal Page
It's easy to get overly excited when you pull the paints out! Before you know it, the entire page is covered and the results are a bit chaotic.
Negative space is essential in art because it gives your eye a place to rest. Even if we aren't creating masterpieces to hang on the wall, we can still use this concept in our art journals. Filling the page with paint is fun and freeing! I fully support (and encourage) you to let loose and let the paint fly. But if you find yourself looking at your page thinking it feels like a mishmash of busyness, it's time to incorporate a key component: negative space.
We can approach this concept in a couple of ways. Start with the intention of leaving untouched areas. Or go for it, and in future layers, bring back the calm that comes with white space. My personal favorite approach? A combination of the two! Check out some of my favorite ways to add (or reinsert) negative space to your journal pages.
Top Tips for Creating Negative Space
1. Less Paint
Starting with less paint on your pallet can reduce the temptation to fill every inch of your page, naturally preserving white space.
2. White Gesso
Applying a bit of gesso at the beginning creates a smoother blend when reintroducing white space to colorful paint. This initial gesso layer isn’t an exact science, and it doesn't have to be perfect! Focus on the areas where you think the most paint will be applied.
3. Reinsert Negative Space
If your page becomes too busy, step back and identify areas where simplifying can bring balance. It's okay to take a break or move onto another project. Return later with a fresh eye to evaluate which areas feel too busy.
4. Work in Layers
Adding layers of white gesso softens chaotic sections and brings the focus back to the overall design. If you prefer more stark whites in some sections, apply multiple thin layers of white paint to create a more opaque appearance.
5. Blend into White
Minimize harsh edges by adding white paint to wetter colors, letting some color bleed into the fresh white. This approach maintains harmony and gives the piece a more integrated and organic feel.
Most importantly, don't be too hard on yourself! Leaving white space is not an easy task! For me, it's gotten easier with practice, but I think it'll always be something I have to be conscious of. And I always rely on my secret weapon…adding negative space back in when I've gone a bit overboard 😉
Tell me, is negative space something you struggle with? Which tip are you most excited to try on your next art journal page? Let me know in the comments!
Check this out if you are looking for more examples of using negative space in your art journal!
xx Brooke
Supplies Used:
8”x8” Journal
Black China Marker
Blackwing Pencil
Uniball Air
Paints
Light Pink
Light Orange
Magenta
Pyrrole Orange
Hot Pink Mix = Gray + Magenta
White Gesso
Paint Brushes/Tools:
Palette Knife Set
Princeton Catalyst Palette Knives
Round 10
Flat Wash
Mini Mop
Filbert 10
