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Principles of art: depth
I can use a range of methods to create depth in my artwork
Lesson 10 of 10
New
New
- Year 9
Principles of art: depth
I can use a range of methods to create depth in my artwork
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Depth is the illusion of distance between the foreground and background of a composition on a flat surface
- There are several ways of creating depth in an image, such as overlapping objects
- Shading and contrast can also be used to create an illusion of depth
Keywords
Depth - the distance between the background and the front of an image
Foreground - the area at the front of the picture space
Atmospheric perspective - replicates how your eye sees a scene with more colour and detail towards the front
Common misconception
Depth can only be created in a realistic scene or in a realistic way.
Depth can be entirely imaginary or realistic. Artists can manipulate elements to create the illusion of shapes, colours and lines standing out or recessing in an image.
For Task A, consider using artworks you have seen in galleries or musuems first hand or you could use works made by older students from your school. Additional information on referenced artists can be found in the additional materials.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Coloured paper, scissors, glue, pencils, still life objects (bottles, jars boxes etc)
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to its definition.
Match the term to its definition.
Q2.How does perspective create an illusion of depth?
How does perspective create an illusion of depth?
By using bright colours
By arranging items in a line
By adding texture
Q3.What describes atmospheric perspective?
What describes atmospheric perspective?
When bright colours are vibrant
When clear outlines create shapes
When accurate proportions are used throughout
Q4.What are isometric drawings often used for?
What are isometric drawings often used for?
Architectural drawings
Interior design
Q5.What distinguishes linear perspective?
What distinguishes linear perspective?
Colourful patterns combine to create interest
Different viewpoints are captured
Uneven scaling creates an abstract image
Q6.Why might an artist choose not to apply the Western convention of perspective?
Why might an artist choose not to apply the Western convention of perspective?
To present a realistic illusion of 3D space as the eye sees it
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the method to its description as it relates to depth.
Match the method to its description as it relates to depth.
Q2.Which technique enhances depth with colour?
Which technique enhances depth with colour?
Making all objects the same colour
Using dark, dull colours for foregrounds
Brightening all areas equally
Q3.How does atmospheric perspective suggest depth?
How does atmospheric perspective suggest depth?
Sharpening details in the background
Using clearer textures further away
Making distant objects larger
Q4.What role does shading and contrast play in creating depth?
What role does shading and contrast play in creating depth?
They flatten the image
They highlight important objects
They only add colour variety
Q5.Match the keyword to its meaning.
Match the keyword to its meaning.
Q6.Why do objects appear lighter and less detailed as they move away?
Why do objects appear lighter and less detailed as they move away?
Because of the paint texture
To make the scene look flatter
To reduce contrast in the image
