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I have added a 3D SketchUp model of the perspective construction used in the 'How to...' section.  This is not in order to demonstrate an alternative method of setting up a perspective drawing, but to help explain more clearly the geometry that underlies any perspective view, whether constructed in the traditional way or via a 3D CAD model. (images © copyright Russell Light) Clearly, a CAD model has many advantages in that it can be used as a basis for a whole series of drawings and different perspective views. However, it is still useful to develop an understanding of the basic principles of perspective by constructing a drawing manually, as this can help with composition and selecting a view, as well as being useful for sketches in the field or when a computer isn't to hand. The SketchUp model can be downloaded from the Google 3D Warehouse .

The Art of Yorkshire garden at the 2011 Chelsea Flower Show celebrates the work of a number of artists who were either born in the county or who have been inspired by its landscape. David Hockney is represented through a giant iPad on an easel which frames views of the garden, acknowledging the continuing significance of the notion of the picture plane or perspective window.  The illusion of a painted surface is enhanced by the cut-away easel. (photo copyright © Russell Light) Hockney has extensively explored the use of optical devices such as the camera lucida in the history of art. His recent exhibitions have featured digital art on iPads made using the app Brushes. The garden, which also features Barbara Hepworth's 'Ascending Form', won a Silver Medal at the show. A 3 part film with an interview with the designer, Kate Dundas, is available on the Guardian website. Sources: D Hockney (2001) - 'Secret Knowledge: Rediscovering the Lost Techniques of the Old Masters...

A pop up diagram from a nineteenth century treatise by Butler Williams, demonstrating the relationship between the viewing position, the picture plane, the object and the visual rays (images copyright © Russell Light). Williams, Butler (1843) - 'A Manual for Teaching Model-Drawing from Solid Forms, the Models Founded on those of M. Dupuis, Combined with a Popular View of Perspective', 2nd edition, John W. Parker, London, 1852.