Question

Artists make shapes in the background smaller shapes

Answer 1

It sounds like you might be referring to a technique used in art called "layering" or "foreground and background composition." In this technique, artists create a sense of depth and perspective by depicting objects in the background as smaller shapes compared to those in the foreground. This helps to guide the viewer's eye through the piece and create a three-dimensional effect on a two-dimensional surface.

Another related concept is "atmospheric perspective," where distant objects are not only smaller but also lighter in color and less detailed, enhancing the illusion of depth. Artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Claude Monet have effectively employed these techniques in their works.

If you want to explore this idea further, consider how different artists apply these techniques in their compositions, or how you might use them in your own artwork!