Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Scientific Illustration • Traditional Media • Gesture Drawing

Foreshortening

Term from Illustration industry explained for recruiters

Foreshortening is an art technique that makes objects in drawings or paintings appear to extend toward or away from the viewer. It's like when artists make something look three-dimensional on a flat surface, similar to how a photograph shows depth. This skill is particularly important in illustration, animation, and concept art, where artists need to create realistic-looking images that give the impression of depth and perspective. Think of it like drawing a person pointing their arm directly at you - the arm would appear shorter than it really is because of the angle.

Examples in Resumes

Applied Foreshortening techniques to create dynamic character poses for video game concept art

Taught Foreshortening principles to junior artists in animation studio workshops

Mastered Foreshortening skills for creating realistic figure drawings in comic book illustrations

Typical job title: "Illustrators"

Also try searching for:

Concept Artist Character Designer Comic Book Artist Animation Artist Digital Illustrator Technical Illustrator Storyboard Artist

Where to Find Illustrators

Online Communities

Professional Networks

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you explain foreshortening to a junior artist who is struggling with the concept?

Expected Answer: A senior artist should be able to break down the concept into simple terms, provide practical examples, and demonstrate teaching ability. They might use everyday objects or simple shapes to explain the principle.

Q: How do you approach foreshortening in complex scenes with multiple characters?

Expected Answer: Should discuss planning techniques, use of reference materials, and methods for maintaining consistency across multiple figures while showing their workflow process.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to practice and improve your foreshortening skills?

Expected Answer: Should mention specific exercises, study techniques, use of reference materials, and regular practice routines they employ to maintain and enhance their skills.

Q: How do you handle foreshortening in digital versus traditional media?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the differences and similarities between applying foreshortening in different mediums, including specific tools and techniques they use.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain what foreshortening is and when it's used?

Expected Answer: Should be able to provide a basic explanation of foreshortening as making objects appear to extend toward or away from the viewer, with simple examples.

Q: What basic shapes do you use to practice foreshortening?

Expected Answer: Should mention practicing with simple geometric shapes like cylinders and boxes before moving to more complex forms, showing understanding of fundamentals.