What characterizes Subtractive Sculpture?

Subtractive sculpture is characterized by the process of removing material from a solid mass to create a desired form or shape. This technique involves chiseling, carving, or sanding away parts of the original material, such as stone, wood, or metal, to reveal the final sculpture. The artist begins with a larger block or mass and carefully eliminates material to define the contours and details of the artwork. This approach contrasts with additive sculpture techniques, where materials are added to build up a structure.

In the context of the other options, adding materials refers to additive sculpture techniques, which involve constructing forms by joining or layering materials. The construction using natural materials could refer to both additive and subtractive processes; however, it does not specifically define subtractive sculpture itself. Lastly, assembling found objects in space suggests a more contemporary or collage-like approach, which does not pertain to the traditional practices of subtractive sculpting. Therefore, the emphasis on removing rather than adding material is the defining characteristic of subtractive sculpture.