A picture plane is a two-dimensional space that can be approached in many different ways. Different cultures have evolved various conventions for depicting images in space and a study of these representational conventions can, therefore, illuminate important cultural conceptions. In this workshop, we explore the use of artistic conventions as a cultural lens. As illustrative exercises, participants will create and critique pictures using two of the most mathematical representational systems, the ancient Egyptian grid system, and Renaissance perspective as first described by Leon Battista Alberti.