Figure-Ground Relationship

The figure-ground relationship is how our visual system distinguishes an object (the figure) from its background (the ground). It helps us perceive which parts of an image are the main focus and which parts are supporting or less important. For example, in a black-and-white drawing, the shape of a person (the figure) stands out against the background, making it easier for us to recognize and interpret what we're seeing. This principle is fundamental in art and design, guiding how we organize visual information to create clear and effective compositions.