Tang Yau Hoong, an Illustrator and Graphic Designer, created a series of works that illustrated the use of negative space. Now, for those of you that may be unfamiliar with the term, negative space is the space around and between the subject(s)/object(s) of an image or composition. Negative space plays a number of roles in the art and design world. Some of these roles are to give the viewer the opportunity to rest their eyes while still visually connecting with the piece. It can also be used to draw more focus toward the subjects it surrounds.

Hoong’s illustrations turn these attributes of negative space on their heads. Instead of negative space playing the assisting role, it becomes the focus of the composition. The object or positive space plays up the shape, emphasis, value, and mood of the negative space. Hoong’s work is a good example of how artist and designers can switch gears and work in negative space to create unique illustration.

Source: http://www.behance.net/gallery/The-Art-of-Negative-Space/1316541