What is the technique known as perspective most useful for?

Perspective is a technique primarily used in art to create the illusion of depth and three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. This method allows artists to depict spatial relationships and realistic proportions, giving their artworks a sense of realism that replicates how we perceive the world around us. By employing techniques such as vanishing points and horizon lines, artists can effectively portray distant objects as smaller and outline how various elements relate spatially to one another.

While flat art may incorporate some basic elements of shading, it does not utilize perspective in the same profound manner to suggest depth. Sculptures and textiles, on the other hand, inherently possess three-dimensional qualities and may not rely on perspective as a primary technique. Thus, for artworks like paintings and drawings, perspective is crucial in conveying a three-dimensional experience to the viewer, making it a vital skill in creating realistic art.