Theme 3 - Pictorial Space

Artists use different methods to represent pictorial space on 2-D surfaces.  To put it simply, pictorial space is illlusionary depth that gives the viewer the impression that objects are receded back or placed forwards in the picture plane.  The picture plane or picture surface is the 2-D painting surface and harnessing pictorial space creates a 3-D effect.  Methods used to construct pictorial space included the use of geometric projection, scientific and mathematical perspective, layered and atmospheric perspective, multiple-perspectives, fragmentation, colours, lines and tonal variations.

General Questions

1.       Can you identify how the artist develops a push-and-pull effect of pictorial space?

2.       How is the subject matters of the painting affected by the use of pictorial space? Analyse how the painting’s physical and spatial composition places the subject within a certain context.

3.       What impression does the use of pictorial space have on the viewer?  Do you feel disoriented?  Or does this enhance the realistic perception of the image?

Prasong Luemuang (Thailand 1962 – present)

Insanity

Gouache on canvas

122 x 162 cm  1993

Collection of SAM

Anita Magsaysay-Ho (Philippines 1914 – present)

Ginger Tea

Oil on canvas  49 x 39 cm 1957

Collection of SAM

Tran Trong Vu (Vietnam 1964 – present)

Untitled

Oil on canvas 104 x 252 cm 1994

Collection of SAM

Ivan Sagito (Indonesia 1957 – present)

Yang Menghilangkan Dirinya

Oil on canvas  138.5 x 109 cm   1994

Collection of SAM

Chen Wen Hsi (China 1906 – Singapore 1992)

Herons

Chinese ink and colour on paper 123 x 245 cm 1990

Collection of SAM

Chen Chong Swee (China 1910 – Singapore 1985)

Mountain Scenery

Chinese ink and colour on paper  106 x 56 cm  1962

Collection of SAM

Dede Eri Supria (Indonesia 1956 – present)

Amongst Red Beans

Oil on Canvas  95 x 149 cm   1992

Collection of SAM