This document introduces an assignment asking students to use four black squares to create designs expressing the meaning of four out of six given words: order, increase, bold, congested, tension, and playful. Students are instructed to make at least six preliminary sketches for each word and select their most effective solution to create a finished work of art for four of the words. The document provides rules for using the black squares and emphasizes exploring non-obvious solutions and considering composition.

1. The Black Square Problem:
Welcome to our introduction to creative problem solving. In this assignment we are going to start
with the basic elements and principles that make an effective composition and design; but before we study
them in depth, we are going to discover them through creating a work of art (it’s just more fun this way).
The most important thing to keep in mind is that creative problem solving is visual communication.
It has a language that is more universal than the way we speak. In order to be a successful artist it is
important to look for answers to problems that are innovative and stray away from the obvious solutions.
You will start to question problems by working from the known to the unknown; so be sure to
explore any idea that you may have!
Here’s what you’ll do:
Use four black squares to create four final images that express the meaning of FOUR of these six words (4
total designs that are 6”x6” so you can choose the four you feel you can represent the best)
1. Order
2. Increase
3. Bold
4. Congested
5. Tension
6. Playful
You will make at least 6 preliminary sketches for each word. Select the most effective solution to 4 of
the problems and create a finished work of art for each. You will use pencil, black sharpie marker, rulers,
paper and other materials provided.
Remember, it’s usually not our first idea that is the most successful. Don’t always look for the obvious
solution to the problem. You will find that for some of these words many of you may come up with
outcomes that are very similar to your classmates, but here’s an important fact to keep in mind: The
potential number of successful solutions are infinite!
Here are some important rules to keep in mind when working with these squares:
1. The squares can vary in size
2. The squares are solid black, but when they overlap each other you may distinguish this by using
white space or lines
3. Think of where your squares are in relation to the page (composition)
4. The squares can touch creating a larger shape that may lose the form of a square
5. Be sure to try overlapping for some of these problems
6. Contrast in size, position, direction, and space will drastically effect the meaning of your design
7. Be aware of the relationship between positive (the black squares) and negative (the blank) space
Studio Art
Dorofy/Duckworth/Gordon/Sanders
Good luck, have fun, and think it out!

2. The Black Square Problem:
Order
Increase

3. Bold
Congested

4. Tension
Playful

5. The Black Square Problem Name: _____________________________________
Studio Art
Dorofy/Duckworth/Gordon/Sanders Block: _________________________
Completion of Requirements (1pt. each) Criterion below will be
____ 6 sketches for Order evaluated on this 12-point scale:
____ 6 sketches for Increase 10-12. Exceeds Expectations
____ 6 sketches for Bold 7-9. Meets All Expectations
____ 6 sketches for Congested 4-6. Meets Most Expectations
____ 6 sketches for Tension 1-3. Meets Few Expectations
____ 6 sketches for Playful
____ 4 final pieces created
____ Reflection completed
Composition/Application of Elements & Principles
Does the design and arrangement of your black squares work together as a cohesive whole? Is there
emphasis on the appropriate areas? Does your eye flow effortlessly through the piece? Does your piece
appear cluttered or empty?
/12
Creative Problem Solving
Did you take the scope of the assignment and bring new and interesting thoughts and visual imagery to it?
Since you had words to describe using only black squares were you successful in conveying the meaning
of these words using just the squares? Do all designs suit the words clearly? Are you able to justify the
meaning behind your work?
/12
Application of Materials & Processes
Is your Black Square Project created using the techniques taught in class? Did you use pencil, sharpie and
rulers effectively demonstrating the techniques taught in class?
/12
Craftsmanship
Are there obvious signs of care and quality in the production and creation of your piece? Does your piece
meet conventional standards of craftsmanship?
/12
Comments:
TOTAL:
/56

6. Black Square Problem Reflection
Studio Art
For the 4 words you used, please describe how your design conveys the meaning. For the 2 words you
did not use, please explain why you chose to omit them from your final list. Use a separate sheet of paper
if necessary.
1. Order
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2. Increase
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3. Bold
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4. Congested
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5. Tension
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6. Playful
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7. What was the most difficult part about this project?
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8. If you could do this again, what would you change?
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