Six Ways to Create the Illusion of Space

By Matt Fussell

When it comes to drawing and painting, it is important for artists to be able to create the illusion of space on a 2D surface. In reality, all realistic or representational art is dependent on creating an illusion.  If creating realistic art is what you're after, then having the ability to create the illusion of space on a 2D surface is a skill that you need to master.  There are a few tricks that you can use to create the illusion of space.  In this free drawing lesson, we examine six ways to create the illusion of space on a 2D surface.  Use them together to maximize the illusion.

How to Create Depth

1. Linear Perspective- By using either 1 point perspective, 2 point perspective, or 3 point perspective, an artist can create the illusion of space.  Linear perspective is a drawing method that uses lines to draw objects in space.

2. Overlapping- When one object is positioned in front of another object, part of the object behind it may be blocked from view.  This is called overlapping. 

3. Size- Objects that are closer to a viewer appear larger than objects that are further off in the distance.

4. Placement on the Surface- Generally, objects that are positioned lower on the picture plane will appear closer than objects that are positioned higher on the picture plane.

5. Color and Value- Objects that are closer to a viewer appear darker in value and warmer in color.  Objects that are further away appear lighter in value and cooler in color.

6. Detail- Objects that are closer appear more detailed than objects that are further away.

Six ways to create the illusion of space are illustrated in this video...