Posing the Interdimensional Traveler - ZBrush Creature Design: Creating Dynamic Concept Imagery for Film and Games - page 208

This concept of the first read has been revisiting us since the very early design. It is such an important
aspect of design theory that it carries all the way through to animation. Animators will always evaluate the
pose and position of the character I silhouette to make sure it reads clearly.
As you pose the figure, look for negative spaces and how they interrelate. In Figure 4-33 , for example,
you can see the triangular negative space created by the inside of the lower arm. This negative space shows
the arm is bent and the elbow is away from the body. If I shifted the figure and lost this space, the pose
would be less clear. These shapes will register to the viewer. It is part of the artist's job to be aware of them
and in control of their presentation.
The area around the figure counts as negative space as well. Be sure to consider the overall outline space
of the figure. In Figure 4-34 you can see how the negative space is just as important in defining the figure as
the silhouette or positive space.
Figure 4-33: Here you can clearly see the negative spaces around the shape of the arm.