Stable Figure/Ground Relationship

Definition

A stable figure/ground relationship refers to a clear distinction between the main subject (figure) and the background (ground) in an artwork, where the figure stands out prominently.

Analogy

Imagine a spotlight on a stage. The actor in the spotlight is the figure, while everything else around them is the ground. The audience's attention is focused on the actor because they are clearly separated from their surroundings.

Related terms

Positive Space: Positive space refers to the area occupied by the main subject or objects in an artwork.

Negative Space: Negative space refers to the empty or unoccupied areas surrounding the main subject or objects in an artwork.

Contrast: Contrast is created when there is a noticeable difference between elements such as light and dark, color, size, or texture in an artwork.