How do I create the illusion of depth?

Question

There are multiple ways to approach creating a 3-Dimensional Illusion on a 2-D surface/support.

The elementary answer is can be achieved with a basic still life. She shine a spotlight onto a basic solid matt white cube on a white surface. Draw the cube and the shadow it casts. Note the lightest area of the cube and the darkest dark. As you create, continue comparing all other values to your lightest light and the darkest dark.

Answer 1

A more complex answer is each student artist learns to develop hand eye coordination while practicing the skills to utilize hard and soft edges, value, chroma, composition, scale and perspective to achieve the illusion of depth. Combining several of these methods drastically improves the ability for others to see the illusion not the flat surface. Once the illusion is achieved there is always more refining that can take place. It also works the other way. As a teacher I can look at any attempt and instantly understand where a student is in their development. I customize instruction to work with their strengths and interests. Each student will also learn how to articulate what they are trying to achieve and if they are satisfied with the result. Every unfinished drawing has great potential in the hands of a student who learns to implement the above methods needed to create the illusion of depth.

PS: The website doesn't allow for edits to the question - so, I am unable to fix the typos. It is an important question and would appreciate the opportunity to answer more questions. What are you working on?