Perspective With Hal Reed: Perspective 1

Culled from four television programs on perspective, this intensive how-to with artist Hal Reed kicks off with a history of perspective, and its importance in bringing out the artist's vision. Following the overview Reed goes to the chalkboard, and demonstrates one-point perspective (where the horizon is eye-level, and all lines converge upon a distant imaginary point), using different colored chalk. He effectively demonstrates both indoor and outdoor one-point perspective using only three kinds of lines. The second part of the program teaches two-point perspective, showing artists how to use a "cone of vision" which encompasses a right and left vanishing point on the horizon. Reed is an enthusiastic and amiable instructor, and the material is presented in a lively manner. One caveat is the transfer: while the video image is quite good, there is an unnecessary wait between programs. Between parts 3 and 4, for instance, is a two-minute lag, with color test bars, etc. Some patrons might conclude the program was over before it actually ended. Aside from that, the program is recommended for art classes and public libraries with extensive art instruction holdings. (See COLLAGE DESIGN/PAINTING POP ART BASED ON ADVERTISING ART for availability).