Nōtan Geometric Designs

Lesson Summary

Japanese Nōtan designs explore the concept of light and dark, focusing on the balance of positive and negative space. In this art lesson, students will Nōtan designs using various geometric shapes such as circles, triangles and octagons, learning to manipulate and balance contrasting shapes and spaces. This lesson will enhance their understanding of symmetry, balance, and the aesthetic principle of Nōtan.

Lesson Objectives

• Understand the concept of Nōtan and its significance in Japanese art.

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

• Explore symmetry and contrast through hands-on art creation.

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

 (Have Laminated Traceable Shapes templates ready) 

Discussion

1. What do you find intriguing about the concept of Nōtan and its emphasis on light and dark balance?

2. How can the principles of Nōtan be applied to other forms of art and design?

3. Why is it important to consider both positive and negative spaces in a composition?

4. How does symmetry contribute to the overall harmony in a Nōtan design?

5. What challenges might arise when creating a balanced Nōtan design, and how can they be overcome?

Nōtan Design Steps

1. Cut a Square:

   • Start by cutting a 12 x 12 cm square from the colored construction paper of your choice. This square will serve as the base for your Nōtan design.

2. Draw a Geometric Shape:

   • Select a geometric shape and draw it on your square piece of construction paper.

3. Draw Additional Shapes:

   • On one side of the geometric shape, lightly draw simple shapes or patterns with a pencil. These could be geometric, organic shapes, or objects.

4. Cut Out the Shapes:

   • Carefully cut out the shapes you’ve drawn. Keep both the cut-out shapes and the colored square with the holes.

5. Flip and Arrange:

   • Flip the cut-out shapes outward, like opening a door, and position them along the edges of the square so that they mirror the shapes on the opposite side. This will create a symmetrical design.

6. Glue the Square:

   • Glue the geometric shape in the center of a larger piece of white construction paper.

7. Glue the Shapes:

   • Attach the flipped cut-out shapes onto the white paper, making sure they align perfectly with the edges of the geometric shape.

8. Review and Refine:

   • Ensure all shapes are glued flat and properly aligned. Adjust if necessary to create a clean, balanced design.

9. Admire Your Work:

   • Once the glue is dry, step back and admire the balance of light and dark in your Nōtan design!

Terminology

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

• 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.

• Symmetry: Balanced proportions on either side of a dividing line.

• Contrast: The difference in visual properties that makes an object distinguishable from other objects and the background.