One Point Linear Perspective

Artist Statement

For this project, we were asked to complete a one-point linear perspective drawing. We began the unit by making a basic example of linear perspective using shapes. We drew a horizontal line (horizon line) across the page, then drew converging lines from the edges of our shapes (they could be simple like a square, or complicated like a heart), connecting them to a vanishing point on the horizon line. Then, we drew lines parallel to the sides of the shapes and erased the extra lines. This made them look 3 dimensional, and almost like they were receding back into the page. We were required to draw a total of 10 shapes, 5 above the horizon line and 5 below. Next, we watched a video as a class about the history of linear perspective and how it works. To sum it up, we learned that it is a technique used by artists to create the illusion of depth and space on a flat surface. The important point the video explained to us was creating a vanishing point relative to your eye level. With this helpful information, we begin our first formative assessment, designing our own drawing of a room. The requirements included a table, rug, shelf, couch, two chairs, a window, floorboards or tiles, and ceiling tiles or beams. Finially, for our summative assessment, our class set out to look for a hallway of the school we wanted to draw. I took a picture, printed it out, and got to work using what I had learned about perspective. For my piece, I began with my horizon line. My vanishing point was a little more difficult to find because it was not perfectly centered. I drew the ceiling tiles, back door entrance and floor, leaving the somewhat complex staircase for last. After I was finished with my pencil outline, I decided to keep the original colors of the photo, so I went over the lines with black, light gray, blue, red and yellow colored pencils. Finally, as a last creative touch, I drew two ducks peeking at the camera.

In my perspective drawings, I tried to include the elements of art to create the principles of design. The most obvious one would be line, used throughout the entire piece and mostly present in the floorboards, tiles and stairs. Line helped to create pattern, again, on the floors and ceiling. I used color throughout my artwork to create a bit of emphasis/contrast against the white paper to make it pop and a little more appealing to the eye. Rhythm and movement is apparent all throughout the piece because all the lines lead your eyes to the back wall and the vanishing point. Finally, I believe there is also a sense of unity, everything is balanced and both sides figuratively weigh the same.

For my creative addition, I wanted to add a bit of meaning behind my piece, so I decided to draw my two ducks that passed this summer. One was very shy, so I put her hiding behind the door peeking out. The other was very curious, so I added him waddling closer to the camera. In my artwork, I am the most proud of the staircase. It took me the longest time to finish and I struggled with it the most. There wasn't a specific point I could connect everything to. I overcame this struggle by talking with Mr. Andreson who suggested I pay attention to the horizon line and connect the edges of the tread to my viewpoint. Although they may not be 100% accurate, it looks much better than the stairs in my formative.