Nōtan Design

Lesson Summary

Nōtan (濃淡) is a Japanese art concept that explores the harmony between light and dark. This lesson introduces students to creating Nōtan designs, focusing on the balance of positive and negative space. Through this activity, students will develop an understanding of symmetry, balance, and composition, essential elements in art and design.

Lesson Objectives

• Develop skills in creating visually balanced designs using positive and negative space.

• Develop an understanding of symmetry, balance, and composition.

• Explore the principles of contrast through hands-on artistic creation.

• Practice making precise and intricate cuts on paper using a craft knife to improve your control and accuracy.

Teachers Note: Suggest designing name initials for their first Notan design. 

Note: Elementary aged students may use black permenent markers and correction fluid for fine details.

Steps:

1. Cut a Square:
   Begin by cutting a 12 x 12 cm square from black construction paper. This will serve as the base for your Nōtan design.

2. Draw Shapes:
   On one side of the black square, lightly sketch simple shapes or patterns with a pencil. These can be geometric, organic, or a combination of both.

3. Cut Out the Shapes:
   Carefully cut out the shapes you’ve drawn, keeping both the cut-out shapes and the remaining black square intact.

4. Flip and Arrange:
   Flip the cut-out shapes outward, like opening a door, and align them along the edges of the square to mirror the original shapes on the opposite side. This creates a symmetrical design.

5. Mark the Pieces:
   Lightly trace or mark the positions of the flipped pieces on the larger paper to ensure they stay in place.

6. Glue the Square:
   Attach the black square to a larger sheet of white construction paper.

7. Glue the Shapes:
   Secure the flipped cut-out shapes to the white paper, ensuring they are perfectly aligned with the edges of the black square.

8. Review and Refine:
   Ensure all shapes are glued flat and aligned correctly. Make adjustments if needed for a clean, balanced look.

9. Admire Your Work:
   Once the glue is dry, step back and appreciate the harmonious contrast between light and dark in your Nōtan design!

Terminology

• Nōtan: A Japanese design concept focusing on the balance of light and dark elements.

• Symmetry: Artwork that is balanced, creating a sense of harmony and beauty.

• Contrast: Refers to the difference between light and dark areas, which helps create focus and visual interest in artwork.

• Positive Space: The area occupied by the main subjects of the artwork.

• Negative Space: The background or the space around and between the subjects of an artwork.