Wood carvers employ negative space as a powerful tool to evoke a sense of openness and depth in their sculptures. By deliberately removing material, they create voids that interact with the solid forms, allowing light and shadow to play a dynamic role. This technique not only enhances the visual lightness of the piece but also guides the viewer’s eye through the composition, creating a rhythmic balance between presence and absence.

Artists often plan negative space meticulously, ensuring it complements the subject—whether it’s the gaps between tree branches in a forest scene or the hollows in abstract designs. The result is a sculpture that feels alive, breathing, and expansive, despite being crafted from dense wood. Mastery of negative space transforms rigid material into fluid artistry, proving that what’s left out can be as impactful as what’s carved in.