foreshorteningut

Foreshortening is an artistic technique used in drawing, painting, and other visual arts to create an illusion of an object receding strongly into the distance or background. It involves depicting an object or a part of an object at an angle that makes it appear shorter than it actually is. This is achieved by manipulating perspective, where elements that are closer to the viewer are depicted larger, and those farther away are smaller. Foreshortening is particularly effective in conveying depth and a sense of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface.

The effect of foreshortening is most noticeable when an object is viewed from a sharp angle, such as looking directly up at a figure standing above or looking down at someone lying below. Artists use foreshortening to make figures appear more dynamic and powerful, or to create a sense of dramatic tension. A common example is a hand reaching out towards the viewer; if depicted with foreshortening, the fingers extending forward will appear much shorter than the palm and wrist. Mastering foreshortening requires a good understanding of anatomy, proportion, and the principles of linear perspective. It is a fundamental skill for artists seeking to create realistic and engaging depictions of the world.