What does "negative space" refer to in the context of art?

Negative space refers to the space around and between the subjects of an artwork. In art, negative space is an important concept because it helps to define and highlight the positive space, which is the main subject of the artwork. By paying attention to negative space, artists can enhance the overall composition, create balance, and guide the viewer's eye through the piece. Understanding and utilizing negative space allows artists to produce more dynamic and interesting visual relationships within their works. This concept is especially significant in drawing and painting, where the interplay between the subjects and their surroundings can significantly affect the viewer's perception.