This gives a three dimensional effect or perception, when in reality the surface of the canvas is flat. Through the use of perspective, (to be further explained), texture and value changes, a painter can make it appear as though the viewer can visually enter the painting. What artists have the option of doing through technique, is creating a 3-D illusion upon it. Even though the stretched canvas an artist paints on is technically a three dimensional object, artwork created on canvas is generally thought of as two dimensional, height X width. Dimension has to do with measurement, but also with scope. I also see two dimensional artists who very obviously think three dimensionally.įirst, it's good to understand two basic words, dimension and perspective. But while many sculptors work three dimensionally, I see some that do not necessarily think three dimensionally.

Understanding that we live in a three dimensional world and how that world works for everyone, is a powerful tool and worth understanding.Īrtists tend to label themselves in dimensional ways, especially sculptors, whose work is most often considered three dimensional. It actually doesn't matter if you are creative at all.

It matters not if you paint, sculpt, write or perform. What do the words - three dimensional, mean to you? Let's explore the true depth of 3-D and I hope it not only opens up the artistic minds, but all minds to a broader way of thinking.

Three dimensional glass painting