Perspective:
The illusion of depth and
volume on a flat surface
Size and Vertical Location
We perceive
objects that are
higher on the
page and
smaller as being
further away
than objects
which are in the
forefront of the
picture
Overlapping
When an object
is covered up by
another object,
we perceive it
as being behind.
We do not
perceive the
object as being
incomplete.
Atmospheric Perspective
Objects which
are further
away are
blurry. Objects
which are
closer appear
to be clear and
sharp.
Linear Perspective
The concept of perspective was developed
during the Italian Renaissance
Linear Perspective is based on the idea that
receding lines will meet at a common point
on the horizon
1 Point Perspective
2 Point perspective
M. C. Escher was a Dutch artist who loved
to play with the theory of linear perspective
in order to create visual puzzles.
Tommy Fitzpatrick
Contemporary Austin Artist
Assignment #1
• Use the 1 Point Perspective Worksheet as
a guide.
• Draw the required shapes on 9” x 12”
paper
Assignment #2:
• 1. On 9x12 paper, draw a horizon line
with 2 vanishing points at each end.
• Draw 3 squares in 2 point perspective:
One on the horizon line
One above the horizon line
One below the horizon line
Add details to each (windows, doors, bricks, etc)
Final Perspective Assignment
• Draw a cityscape in 2 point perspective.
• Your lines should be light, so that you can erase
the “construction” lines
• Your drawing should be complex and have
overlapping buildings
• Include streets and buildings of various heights.
The building should have details such as
windows, doors, bricks etc.
• You do NOT have to shade your drawing, but if
you do, be sure that the shading enhances the
3-dimensional look.