Drawing lesson 4

The learning experience

For the second time we are looking at the geometry of perspective that will help you to understand how to make your drawings looks realistic and believable. This time we are exploring two point perspective which is the most common viewpoint for the human eye an the most normal view use in the work of other artists.

In this session we:

1. analysed some drawing to find the artist's 'eye level' by following lines in the drawing such as rooflines, table tops, (and the edges of other rectilinear subjects) to find where they crossed. These crossing points are the Vanishing Points. If you connect the Vanishing Points, you should get a horizontal line which is the 'horizon' or 'eye level'

2, We did some drawing exercises to practice drawing ovals and straight lines to build confidence in your drawing skills and to develop pathways in your brain which will make these actions more automatic and less laboured. I likened these skills to a tennis swing or a golf swing which we can perform without watching the raquet or the club. Likewaise, you will eventually be able to draw straight lines an ovals without watching the pencil so closely.

Here are some examples to remind you of the characteristics of two point perspective.

Whereas one point perspective has horizontal lines, two point perspective has hardly any. The only place in a conventional two point perspective drawing where horizontals occur is at the artists eye level. 









Can you find the eye level in these drawings?

Your Personal Journey

1. This week, your task is to construct a two point perspective drawing of an interior or some large objects like furniture. You might choose to go out and about to do your drawing in a public place such as a cafe or favourite bar. Find a comfortable seat in the shade with some privacy. 

If you do choose to sit in a public place, people are bound to take an interest in your work - especially the locals! Just relax. No-one will say anything uncomplimentary; they are just interested. Don't ever apologise for your developing drawing skills - just tell people you are taking lessons an you have a task to complete. If they are persistent, just explain that you need to concentrate an maybe you can chat after the drawing is finished. They will understand.