Drawing lessons - illustrated lesson notes for teachers and students

Advanced perspective distortions

5-1 ADVANCED PERSPECTIVE No.1

Roll-over perspective

Here is a painting that utilizes a

single vanishing point without

unduly discomforting the eye. I

call this roll-over perspective.

My aim in this painting was to

paint the total extent of the

landscape beyond what the

camera or the eye would see,

and without moving the eye's

cone of vision.

As the landscape is essentially

flat the illusion needed is one

that combines (in the

perspective mode) a plan view

with an elevation. Also to make

the transition as seamless as

possible! Secondly the

perspective scale must be such

that the distance from tee to

green should still appear at

least 400 yds.

Two essentials must be realised

to understand how the illusion

is completed.

First: the eye has a natural cone of vision wherein it

can focus. This is usually about 30 degrees. Beyond this

cone focus is lost - even though movement is

discernable up to 160 degrees(wiggle your thumbs and

see when they disappear). To look at my painting you

will note I trick or force the eye to alter its cone of

vision, when it really, is not necessary. It does not have

to refocus to see the entire painting, but I make it

believe it does. We are forced to look 'down' at the tee

and 'up' at the green.The eye will refuse to do

otherwise.

Second: the perspective scale is distorted in that I

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