Exercise in Cylinders and Boxes

Make free-hand drawings of cylinders in various positions, especially one that will show the visible end of a cylinder appearing nearly as a straight line (as in A in the accompanying illustration) and the invisible end (B) appearing as an ellipse, the width depending upon the length of the cylinder – the longer the cylinder, the wider the ellipse.

Draw a box from the model. Place it directly in front of the eye, but above or below it. Measure the back edge of the top and compare it with the front edge. Note that the back edge will be much shorter. Note that the two side lines will converge to meet the shorter lines. Place the box to one side, so that one side will be seen. Note the apparent shortness of the further (vertical) edge of the side. (See also Figs. 16 and 17, chapter on Perspective.)

LEARN TO SEE

That is the secret of nearly all success in art work. To see. To see accurately, the outline, the phase of light and shade, the quantities, qualities and gradations of color. That is all. It must be learned by degrees.
The frequently heard question, “Can I learn to draw pictures?” should unhesitatingly be answered in the affirmative. “Can you tell me how long it will take?” should be answered in the negative.

To learn to draw well means application, patience, courage and confidence. And it means having those qualities more than the possession of so-called talent or even genius.

Certain rules may be laid down but there is that which the pupil must do himself – he must see. The art of seeing, that’s it.

Begin at the bottom. A very large proportion of the failures among drawing students is due to a tendency to slight the early exercises. They want to start right out with finished drawings of an ambitious character.

Keep to simple subjects drawn with simple lines. Avoid elaboration and complication.
Practice line economy.

Note – The seeker for further instruction on the subject of fore
shortening is advised to study and become familiar with the laws of perspective, and to go to nature for the true aspects of visible form.