Notan: The Dark-Light Principle of Design

by Dorr Bothwell and Marlys Mayfield

Book Overview

As a guiding principle of Eastern art and design, Notan (a Japanese word meaning dark-light) focuses on the interaction between positive and negative space, a relationship embodied in the ancient symbolism of the Yang and the Yin. In composition, it recognizes the separate but equally important identity of both a shape and its background. Since their introduction in the West, the intriguing exercises associated with Notan have produced striking results...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 048626856X
• ISBN13: 9780486268569
• Release Date: September 1991
• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Length: 80 Pages
• Weight: 0.44 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 8.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Design education

I am a design educator. Although I've developed a number of very effective design problems for my advanced students of visual design, I find I'm always looking for new sources of inspiration for my foundations students. The issue I generally confront is that texts tend to fall on one or the other end of a continuum, ranging between incredibly basic to either esoteric or obtuse. Notan: The Dark-Light Principle of Design, I am happy to say, tends to fall at the midpoint of the pendulum swing, providing examples of exercises that are appropriate for introductory learners. With some modification, the principles in this text are applicable to segments of drawing, 2D design, and graphic design curricula, and should make an excellent supplement to a core program of established design exercises.

design basic for ALL fields of art

This book teaches a basic principle that all artists/teachers should use when thinking/teaching composition whether you are working two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally. Notan is a simple design principle that focuses on positive and negative space. It uses six different exercises that could be used or adapted at any age level and should be a must for the art curriculum. It also offers great historical references. It is one of the best art books you could buy for under $10.

Notan: The Dark-Light Principle Of Design

Gives a very good idea of the relationships of dark & light in design. Took a class from Dorr many years ago. Glad to see her book back in print. I bought this book for my Grand Daughter.

Clarifies the application of design principles: a valuable reference.:

After reading this book and doing some of the suggested exercises, I became more sensitive to negative space and related design principles and better able to apply them to my art.

Why I love Notan

The Book Notan is a stimulating journey in to the World of design.Every aspiring designer should own this book. The excercises are sure to help in the devolopment of an understanding of the importance of "negative" space and it's relationship with good design. I would recommend this book to ages 12 and up, for those with an eye for art, or who would like to devolop their eye. I find myself returning to this book on a regular basis to refresh my Vision and kick start my creativity. An Exceptional Book!!