Perspective Drawing

Perspective is easy; yet, surprisingly few artists know the simple rules that make it so. Remedy that situation with this simple, step-by-step book, the first devoted entirely to the topic. 256 illustrations.

DIVConcisely written text accompanied by more than 150 simply drawn illustrations together demonstrate vanishing points and eye level and explain such concepts as appearance versus reality and perspective distortion. /div

This clever book teaches artists the unique skill of drawing perspective for spectacular landscapes, fantastic interiors, and other wildly animated backgrounds to fit comic-strip panels.

Computers can calculate perspective angles and create a drawing for us, but the spontaneity of mark making, the tactile quality of a writing surface, the weight of a drawing instrument, and the immediacy of the human touch are sensations that keep traditional drawing skills perpetually relevant. The sensuality and convenience of the hand persists and will survive as a valuable communication tool, as will the need to accurately express your ideas on paper. As a professional, understanding the foundations of drawing, how we process images, and how we interpret what we see are principal skills. Understanding linear perspective enables artists to accurately communicate their ideas on paper. The Complete Guide to Perspective Drawing offers a step-by-step guide for the beginner as well as the advanced student on how to draw in one-point through six-point perspective and how to make scientifically accurate conceptual illustrations from simple to complex situations.

In this thought-provoking practical guide, a noted artist and educator demonstrates that learning to violate the rules of perspective (profitably) is as important for the practicing artist as learning the principles of perspective themselves. Only in this way can students free themselves from the constraints of tradition and find their own imaginative paths. However, it is vital that students first have a solid grasp of classical perspective before they can think about adapting it creatively. In presenting the principles of perspective drawing, Mr. Watson devotes a chapter each to step-by-step discussions of such topics as the picture plane, foreshortening and convergence, the circle, the cone, three-point perspective, universal perspective, figures in perspective, and much more. To illustrate his points he offers expert analysis of the works of such leading illustrators as John Atherton, V. Bobri, R. M. Chapin, Jr., Albert Dorne, Robert Fawcett, Constantin Guys, W. N. Hudson, Carl Roberts, Ben Stahl, and Aldren A. Watson, as well as drawings by Pieter de Hooch and Paul Cézanne. The result is a ground-breaking study that artists, illustrators, and draftsmen will find invaluable in learning to create works with convincing perspective. Ernest W. Watson taught at Pratt Institute for over 20 years, co-founded and served as editor-in-chief of the magazine American Artist, and co-founded the prestigious art publishing house of Watson-Guptill.

A hands-on guide to perspective provides exercises designed to make drawing perspective effortless and easy.

Perspective Drawing is a definitive handbook covering all the major concepts of linear perspective. Written in a straightforward style, this textbook provides clear explanations of one-point, two-point, and three-point perspective drawing, and explores the perspective grid, shadows, reflections, plans and elevations, and fisheye and panoramic views. The book employs a highly visual design, with step-by-step illustrations and contemporary examples that connect theory with practice. Perspective Drawing is intended for both the beginning student and the skilled practitioner. Presented in a compact format, this text covers introductory topics and more advanced techniques. The foundational skills of linear perspective are relevant to any creative field, including fine art, graphic design, advertising, illustration, animation, and interior design. Perspective Drawing is an essential addition to any art and design library. TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 - Linear Perspective Chapter 2 - Tools & Techniques Chapter 3 - One-Point Perspective Chapter 4 - Two-Point Perspective Chapter 5 - Three-Point Perspective Chapter 6 - Non-Rectangular Forms Chapter 7 - Proportion & Scaling Chapter 8 - The Cone of Vision Chapter 9 - Grids, Squares & Cubes Chapter 10 - Plans & Elevations Chapter 11 - Dynamic Planes Chapter 12 - Combining Perspectives Chapter 13 - Cast Shadows Chapter 14 - Reflections Chapter 15 - Multi-Point Perspective Chapter 16 - Shade & Texture

Perspective is one of the most important concepts for an artist to understand. In this valuable beginnerÆs guide, acclaimed artist Ernest Norling teaches you how to use perspective to create a sense of depth and realism in your artwork. Perspective covers techniques for drawing in one-, two-, and three-point perspective, as well as information on how to use vanishing points and the horizon line to establish believable depth. Special attention is given to learning to draw circles, cylinders, and people in perspective. Whether you specialize in drawingùeven cartooning or animationùor painting in acrylic, pastel, oil, or watercolor, a good working knowledge of perspective is essential. DonÆt be surprised if you find yourself referring to this essential guide again and again!