Visualizing Space: Perception, Perspective, and Artistic Techniques

Understanding Space and Visual Perception

Space is the medium in which we move. It is unlimited and three-dimensional, meaning it has three dimensions: height, width, and depth. Through these, we can understand the form, saturation, and position of any solid body.

The way our eyes perceive space, the visual field, is divided into two general planes: the plane of the sky and the plane of the earth. These are separated by the horizon, seen at the eye level of the human observer. Each observer perceives their environment from a single point of view, which changes simply by altering the direction of their gaze or the position from which they observe.

Representing Three-Dimensional Space on a Plane

Drawing on a plane (which has height and width) is achieved by simulating depth using various resources. These include the superposition of elements or the use of transparency. The size, color intensity, and sharpness of objects contribute to the feeling of remoteness.

Geometric Perspective and Vanishing Points

Perspective is a geometric, conic system through which we represent space and real objects as we see them. To create a drawing using this system, it is necessary to establish the point of view from which we observe the scene.

The height of the horizon is determined by the point of view (at the eye level of the observer) and is plotted as a horizontal line. Any lines representing depth will converge at a point on the horizon called the vanishing point, where they appear to stop.

A flat surface has two dimensions: height and width. If we add the missing dimension, depth, we create a three-dimensional shape or volume.

Geometric Forms and Volumes

Understanding Regular Polyhedra

Regular polyhedra are three-dimensional geometric shapes formed by equal, regular polygons joined by their faces.

Types and Characteristics of Volumes

Volumes can be simple or complex, depending on whether they are composed of one or more forms. Additionally, a volume can be full or empty, meaning it can be solid or hollow. Volumes can also be concave (curving inward) or convex (curving outward).

Representing Volume in Art

Volume can be represented using technical and artistic procedures such as drawing and painting.

Blocking In: Simplified Model Drawing

Blocking in a picture involves drawing a simplified model using basic geometric forms and auxiliary lines that are later erased.

Light and Shadow in Artistic Representation

Natural vs. Artificial Light Sources

Natural light from the sun varies constantly in quality depending on the time of day and year. As it cannot be manipulated, painters who work outdoors capture time-dependent effects.

Artificial light rays are emitted by lamps, spotlights, etc. These rays can be parallel or divergent.

Expressiveness of Light Direction

The expressiveness of light changes significantly based on its direction: whether it is frontal, side, or backlit.

Chiaroscuro: Mastering Light and Shade

Chiaroscuro is the distribution of light and shadow to create the illusion of volume.

Gradient Technique for Smooth Transitions

The gradient technique involves gradually reducing the intensity of grays or colors, creating very gentle transitions.

Key Elements of Light and Shadow

Key elements of light and shadow include the area of light, the shadow itself, and the projected shadow.

About Clay: Composition and Origin

Clay is a type of earth formed from the decomposition of aluminum minerals.