Research Point 2.4.1.1: Basics of Linear Perspective

Having researched this topic in great detail in my previous course, I decided to simply refresh my memory of the key points to remember.

Perspective was developed with the study of optics (how light is perceived and can be manipulated) and can be found in a wide array of art, such as landscapes, townscapes, still life pieces and even sculpture, however, it is not always immediately obvious that it has been considered and can sometimes purposefully be manipulated to create an eerie feel within the piece of unbalance and unease. On the contrary, when it is precise, it creates a sense of calm and structure within the piece.

Whilst there is a lot to remember and a lot of time and effort is required to create precision within a piece with regard to perspective, a good representation can be created with relative ease so long as the artist is aware of the concept of perspective and how lines within the piece will inevitably meet at a vanishing point along the eye level at which the artist is positioned. Sometimes, these skills are just intuitive and self-taught.

Perspective assists the artist in creating depth within their work, but also helps with the composition and arrangement of objects within the piece to an accurate scale and general measurement. Being able to constantly refer back to where the vanishing point would be and how the object should look as opposed to how you think it looks.

Humans have a unique depth perception and ability to understand the same. We build this depth by considering several factors within the light we see: space, temperature, colour and value.

Bibliography

Britannica. (Unknown) ‘Linear Perspective’ [Online] At: https://www.britannica.com/art/linear-perspective (Accessed on 15 May 2020)