Topic One (1.1): One-point warm-up exercises
Background information
Linear perspective is a method invented during the Italian Renaissance over 500 years ago.
It is a method to calculate and measure how objects appear to be bigger in the foreground and become smaller in the distance.
It was the ´virtual reality´ of the 15th century.
Objective
In this topic you will be learning about the different elements of linear perspective. You will also learn about:
- One-point perspective
- The techniques and languages of one-point perspective
- How to recognise one point perspective in your environment and photography
- Using linear perspective to represent space and distance in a composition
Equipment Required
- A range of pencils: HB, 2B and 4B
- A small A5 sketchpad
- A larger A3 sketchpad
- A long 30cm or 40cm ruler
Topic 1.1a - One-point perspective warm-up exercises
Watch the video carefully and practise the techniques that are demonstrated.
- Watch the video then try to copy what you have seen.
- Make sure that you start with a horizon and a vanishing point.
- Make sure your vertical lines are upright, or perpendicular to the horizon.
- Start with smaller sketches and practise this technique.
- You will also draw cuboids that appear to disappear in the distance.
Topic 1.1b - Drawing one-point perspective warm-up exercises
Watch the video carefully and practise the techniques that are demonstrated. Spend time practising one point perspective.
- Your vertical lines should gradually get closer together as they get closer towards the vanishing point.
- This technique takes a lot of practice.
- Look at your drawing at a distance to check that your lines are in perspective.
- Keep your pencil lines light until you are confident that the lines are in the correct place.
- Once you are happy with your drawing, you can add some shading and detail to make it look more life-like.
Topic 1.1c - More perspective warm-ups and photography research
Watch the video carefully and practise the techniques that are demonstrated.
- Continue with some more perspective warm-ups.
- You also need to spend time looking at your environment to see if you can spot lines of perspective.
- Add some photos to your sketchpad, especially photographs of buildings.
- Try and take photos from different viewpoints.
Reflecting
Let’s review your learning. How confident are you now with the following?
- Understanding one-point perspective
- Photographing images of architecture showing linear perspective
- Drawing urban landscapes using one-point perspective
Consolidating your learning
- Go back through your sketchpad.
- Have you filled up all the spaces in your pages?
- Could you add some more drawings to the pages?
- Have you photographed and recorded your work?
- You can also add comments or thoughts in your sketchpad.
- Take time to make your sketchpad look great, but remember to show your mistakes as well.
- If you have worked on paper, stick them into your sketchpad.