Classical Animation–Atmospheric Perspective

Atmospheric Perspective

Lesson Summary

In this lesson, students will explore the principle of atmospheric perspective and how it creates the illusion of depth and distance in landscape paintings. By understanding and applying the effects of atmosphere—such as changes in contrast, detail, and color saturation—students will paint landscapes that capture a sense of depth and space.

Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Understand the concept of atmospheric perspective and its role in creating depth in art.

• Apply atmospheric perspective by adjusting contrast, detail, and color saturation across different planes in a landscape.

• Use painting techniques, such as washes and gradations, to achieve realistic effects.

• Create multiple landscape paintings that demonstrate their understanding of atmospheric perspective.

What is Atmospheric Perspective?

Atmospheric perspective is the effect of the atmosphere on the appearance of objects as they recede into the distance. This principle helps create depth in a two-dimensional image by altering three main visual components:

Contrast

Contrast is strongest in the foreground and diminishes in the background.

Dark shadows and bright highlights appear sharper and more distinct in closer objects.

Details

Details are more defined in the foreground and blur or fade as objects recede.

Fine textures or small elements are mostly visible in the nearest planes.

Color Saturation

Colors in the foreground are more intense and vibrant, while those in the distance fade and blend into the color of the sky.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sketch a Simple Landscape

   • Choose a simple subject, such as hills, mountains, or a flat plain.

   • Divide your scene into planes: background, middle ground, and foreground. Include more planes for complex landscapes.

2. Sky Wash Gradation

   • Select the color for your sky (e.g., light blue or a sunset tone).

   • Use a large flat brush to paint a wash gradation, transitioning from more intense color at the top to a lighter tone near the horizon.

   • Do not worry about overlapping the rest of the landscape; it will be painted over.

3. Paint the Background

   • Start with the farthest plane. Use highly diluted paint to create soft, light tones that blend into the sky.

   • Avoid sharp details, and keep colors muted and less saturated.

4. Paint the Middle Ground

   • Use slightly less diluted paint to create more defined shapes and subdued colors.

   • Add subtle details, such as trees or buildings, but keep them less sharp than those in the foreground.

5. Paint the Foreground

   • Use opaque, vibrant colors to make the foreground stand out.

   • Add intricate details such as blades of grass, bark texture, or leaves on trees.

   • Use high contrast between light and dark areas to bring the foreground into focus.

6. Refine and Review

   • Evaluate your painting and add details or adjust color gradation as needed.

   • Pay attention to the transitions between planes to ensure a smooth and believable depth effect.

7. Create a Second Landscape

   • Try a more complex landscape, such as forests, buildings, or cottages.

   • Experiment with different atmospheres, such as foggy mornings, sunsets, or hazy afternoons.

Tips for Success

• Layering: Allow each plane to dry before moving to the next to prevent unwanted blending.

• Experimentation: Test how different levels of water dilution affect the transparency and saturation of your paint.

• Reference Images: Use photos of real landscapes to observe how atmospheric perspective changes the appearance of objects.

• Patience: Building depth takes time and careful layering, so don’t rush through each step.

Key Terminology

Wash Painting: A painting technique in which paint is diluted to create a transparent layer of color.

Gradation: A gradual transition from one tone or color to another.

Dilute: To thin paint by adding water, reducing its opacity.

Transparent Paint: Paint that allows light to pass through, revealing layers underneath.

Opaque Paint: Paint that blocks light and fully covers the layer beneath.