OPTICAL ILLUSION ART CREATES MOVEMENT THAT APPEARS TO “TRICK” THE EYE

Op art is a style of abstract art popularized in the 1960, yet dates back to the 1938 with Victor Vasarely’s painting Zebras. Vasarely often used linear perspective which manipulates abstract forms creating a balloon effect. Linear perspective is said to have been invented by Filippo Brunelleschi, a Renaissance architect and sculptor in 1415. Op artist, Bridget Riley introduced the use of color in her optical art and is quoted as saying, “Focusing isn't just an optical activity, it is also a mental one.”

These optical illusions consist of converging black and white lines and shapes arranged in patterns that vibrate, shift, flash and warp as the viewer blinks or approaches the art. Op Art is interactive and visually kinetic. It has even made its way into neuroscience and was declared a phenomenon known as center/surround antagonism, explaining the visual effect of a black circle on a white background appearing darker than that same circle on a gray background.

There are talented op artist today creating realistic chalk drawings on streets around the world. Here some examples of street opt art on Pinterest.

Warning: Some Op Art can cause pain in the eyes or induce headaches (It’s a definite love/hate for me).

FURTHER READING:

Ludimar Hermann’s - Hermann’s Grid
“How To Use Your Eyes,” by James Elkins