Sketch Book for the Artist

ARCHITECTURE

Single-Point Perspective

MASTERING LINEAR PERSPECTIVE is easier than you may

imagine. On the previous page we looked at its essential

mechanism through drawings by Leonardo and Piranesi.

Study these pages first before embarking on this lesson.

Leonardo began with a grid of many lines within which he

invented his scene, discovering the image as it progressed.

In contrast, Piranesi planned his drawing with only the

essential lines needed. This is where we will begin.

First read through, then follow the ten steps below, using a

sharp HB pencil and ruler. Draw each step over the preceding

one to build up a single image. This lesson shows you how

to make a simple illusion of space defined by two boxes and

three flat boards, corresponding to a single vanishing point.

Next, try composing your own space. Note that if you place

large structures in the foreground and smaller ones closer to

your vanishing point, you will amplify the illusion of distance.

DRAWING BOXES

1

Using a ruler and a sharp HB pencil, draw a horizon

line across your paper Mark a spot on the horizon line;

this is your vanishing point. Surround the vanishing point with

a small rectangle.

3

Draw a second larger rectangle surrounding the first.
The four corners must each touch a dotted line. This
ensures that the second rectangle aligns with the shape and
position of the first.

2

Draw four dotted lines radiating out from the vanishing

point. Each line should pass through one corner of

the rectangle. Extend each dotted line to the edge of

your drawing.

4

Draw four short lines to connect the four corners of the

two rectangles. Erase the dotted construction lines. You have

completed your first box. (See p.98 for an important note

on oscillation.)