The figure is the primary subject of the image, and everything else is
the ground. When the mind identifies a figure, it typically senses the figure as closer in distance to
the viewer than the ground, even though the figure and ground occupy the same 2-D space of, for
example, the computer screen. The mind more clearly identifies the shape of the figure than the
shape of the ground, and the mind is able to recall figures more easily than the ground.
Adding positive or negative space
Figure and ground are also referred to as positive and negative space??”the figure is the positive
space, and the ground is the negative space. An image works best when the balance of positive and
negative space reflects the feeling that you want to evoke. A great deal of positive space in an image
can make your interface appear dynamic, exciting, intimate, or busy. A great deal of negative space
can make your user interface appear quiet, clear, or elegant.
Repetitive curves, straight lines, and diagonals in your figure/ground relationships can
add energy and movement to your scene. TIP
209
Using Principles of Graphic Design to Create Next-Generation Interfaces 8
You can make use of the figure/ground relationship by:
n Adding more figures??”more positive space??”to increase activity
n Adding more ground??”more negative space??”to decrease activity
n Creating ambiguous figure/ground relationships to evoke a sense of magic or illusion, as
shown by the two outlines of a face creating a lamp in Figure 8.
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