2_Perspective Introduction

Perspective (in art) is a technique used to represent 3-D objects on a 2-D surface.

There are different types of perspective and different techniques artists can use to create perspective.

We'll go over aerial (atmospheric) & linear perspective.

First, let's review the parts of a picture plane (or composition):

Aerial (Atmospheric) Perspective—

refers to the effect the atmosphere has on the appearance of an object as it is viewed from a distance

As the distance between an object and a viewer increases, the contrast between the object and its background decreases, and the contrast of any markings or details within the object also decreases.

The colors of the object also become less saturated and shift towards the background color, which is usually blue (but can be other colors).

Linear Perspective—

makes use of converging lines and vanishing points

Based on this: objects appear smaller as they move further away from the viewer.
Includes 1-point & 2-point perspective*
*goes up to 5-point

1-point perspective—

Horizon line + 1 vanishing point
Whole sides of object (horizontal & vertical edges) are parallel to picture plane.

Examples of 1-point perspective:

2-point perspective—

Horizon line + 2 vanishing points
Vertical edges are parallel to picture plane.
Only vertical lines are (truly) parallel

Examples of 2-point perspective:

WATCH THESE VIDEOS:

#1: Introduction to one-point perspective

#2: Train your eye: perspective practice

#3: Train your eye: eye level

Optional: This video textbook is a helpful resource if you want to check it out. It was made for high-school age students, but the information is good for all ages. (Note: you can click to specific "chapters" by the timestamp.)

Linear Perspective Video Textbook: https://youtu.be/67_Xeq3AEY8

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