What is the subtractive method in art?

The subtractive method in art involves creating a work by removing material from a larger mass, rather than adding to it. This technique is often used in sculpture, where artists carve away stone, wood, or other materials to reveal the final form. It contrasts with additive methods, such as modeling with clay or assembling materials. Subtractive methods emphasize the inherent qualities of the material, allowing for unique textures and forms to emerge through the process of elimination.