Artists make shapes in the background smaller than shapes in the foreground to communicate their distance from the viewer. How else might a landscape artist show shapes in the background to depict their distance from the viewer?

Answer 1

Other techniques that a landscape artist may use to depict the distance of shapes in the background from the viewer include:

1. Overlapping: Overlapping shapes in the background with shapes in the foreground can create a sense of depth, as objects that are further away appear to be hidden behind those that are closer.

2. Atmospheric perspective: Using a technique called atmospheric perspective, the artist can create the illusion of distance by making the shapes in the background less distinct, less detailed and lower in contrast, giving the impression that they are farther away.

3. Color: The colors used in the background can also convey a sense of distance, as cooler and lighter colors (such as blues and grays) tend to recede into the distance and warmer, brighter colors (such as reds and oranges) appear closer.

4. Size: Even if the shapes in the background are not made smaller than those in the foreground, the artist can take advantage of their size to suggest distance. Objects that are smaller in size are perceived as further away, while those that are larger appear closer.

5. Positioning: The placement of shapes in the background can also create a sense of distance. Objects that are closer to the horizon line appear further away, while those that are higher up on the canvas appear closer.