The School of Athens by Raphael: Diminution (3/5): Figures become smaller toward the back, but the effect is subtle as most remain on the same stage. Convergence (5/5): Strong use of a central vanishing point, with architectural lines directing focus. Foreshortening (3/5): Subtle, seen in the angles of figures’ limbs and poses. Overlap (3/5): Objects and figures overlap slightly, but not extensively, to suggest depth. Atmosphere (2/5): Minimal; a faint shift in the sky color provides a hint of atmospheric perspective.

Thanks for the interesting guest. I struggled with drawing straight lines for a long time. I thought I was drawing the ‘professional’ way by using my forearm instead of my wrist, but I didn’t realize the importance of using my whole arm, especially the shoulder. Even though using my forearm made my lines more continuous than just using my wrist, they still tended to curve. Understanding that I need to engage my whole arm has been a game changer.

Thank you, As always, it's both fascinating and easy to understand.

Thanks for the concise analysis. It’s definitely an interesting way to approach background paintings. Breaking down complex structures into simple shapes makes them feel much less overwhelming.