One-Point Perspective

One point perspective is a genre of drawing that uses a single vanishing point in the distance from which everything in the drawing is set out, which, as a result, creates an illusion of depth. Below are some examples of one-point perspective drawings. 

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Before we begin drawing, here are some vocabulary terms that are frequently used (and will be used in the following tutorial) in describing a one-point perspective drawing.

 

• Parallel: Parallel lines are lines that never touch, even if they are extended indefinitely

• Perpendicular: Perpendicular lines meet at a right angle (90º angle)

• Horizontal Lines: Horizontal lines are parallel to the top and bottom edges of your paper; they are perpendicular to the left and right edges of your paper

• Vertical Lines: Vertical lines are parallel to the left and right edges of your paper; they are perpendicular to the top and bottom edges of your paper

• Slanted Lines: Slanted lines are neither vertical nor horizontal, but rather diagonal at any other angle

• Horizon Line: The horizon line is a type of horizontal line that represents the viewer’s eye-level

• Perspective Lines (or Orthogonal Lines): The lines that are parallel in real life but meet at one point in a one-point perspective drawing

• Vanishing Point: A point on the horizon line where all perspective lines meet 

• Plane: A flat, two-dimensional surface; a cube, for instance, has 6 planes

 

Let’s practice drawing a few cubes in one-point perspective:

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[Source] https://www.studentartguide.com/articles/one-point-perspective-drawing

 

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Once you’re comfortable with your finished product, you can practice drawing a bit more complex blocks. Follow the guide below for help:

 

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[Source] https://www.studentartguide.com/articles/one-point-perspective-drawing

 

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Getting the hang of it? Now pick a room, street, or picture of either, and draw it in one-point perspective. If you don’t have a ruler at hand or having trouble with the drawing, below is a grid that you can place your paper over to guide you. 

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[Source] https://www.studentartguide.com/articles/one-point-perspective-drawing

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