Optical illusions
What is an illusion?
Optical illusions are images or pictures that we perceive differently than they really are. Put another way, optical illusions occur when our eyes send information to our brains that tricks us into perceiving something that does not match reality.
Types of illusions
Some optical illusions are physiological. This means that they're caused by some sort of physical means in the eyes or the brain.
The following illusions are physiological illusions:
Stare at the lightbulb for 30 seconds. Then immediately stare at the next blank slide. What do you see?
Stare at the dark spot in the middle. Does it seem to be getting bigger?
Focus on the dot in the middle and move your head forward and back.
Types of illusions
Distorting illusions use different techniques to make objects of similar size, length or curvature appear distorted.
The following illusion is a distorting illusion:
Which line is longer?
They are both the same!
Types of illusions
Cognitive illusions occur when our brains automatically make assumptions based on the information sent from the eyes. These illusions are sometimes called “mind games.“
The following illusions are cognitive illusions:
Colours
Read through this list of colours but instead of reading the word, say the colour of each word.
Types of illusions
Ambiguous illusions are pictures or objects that can be seen in more than one way.
The following illusions are ambiguous illusions:
A couple or an old man?
Good or evil?
Young lady or old lady?
goblet or faces?
Rabbit or duck?
Woman or saxophone player?
Is this the face of a liar?
How many faces do you see?
Can you spot the face?
Elderly people or musicians?
Types of illusions
Paradox illusions occur as a result of pictures or objects that cannot exist or are physically impossible. Paradox illusions are popular in works of art, such as those made famous by artist M. C. Escher.
The following illusions are paradox illusions:
This artwork is called ‘relativity’ by M.C Escher
How many legs do I have?
Where does the puzzle begin and end?
Could you build this object?
Looking up or down?
Let’s have some fun and create our own illusion today using simple lines!
Click below to learn how to create your own hand optical illusion.
Choose a colour scheme and add colours to complete your illusion artwork.
When you are finished put your work into your bag and bring it to show Mrs Carter when we are back at school.
HAVE FUN!