Geometric Illusions

Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion

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Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion

This Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion creates the appearance of motion as a simple pattern is moved across the top of another.

A Moiré pattern illusion is a visual phenomenon that occurs when two or more semi-transparent or repetitive patterns are overlaid or placed in close proximity to one another, creating a new pattern with a different appearance. The resulting pattern often appears to move, shimmer, or vibrate, even though the underlying patterns are static.

If you are interested in learning more about how this Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion works, scroll down to read more about it.

Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion
Artist: Kathleen Darby


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What is the Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion?

The Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion is created using a Moiré pattern which is a visual phenomenon that occurs when two or more semi-transparent or repetitive patterns are overlaid or placed in close proximity to one another, creating a new pattern with a different appearance. The resulting pattern often appears to move, shimmer, or vibrate, even though the underlying patterns are static.

Moiré patterns can occur in a variety of contexts, from digital images to physical objects. For example, when two screens with slightly different grid patterns are overlaid, a Moiré pattern may appear. Similarly, if a photograph of a fine mesh or grid pattern is printed on paper with another fine mesh or grid pattern, a Moiré pattern may also appear.

Moiré patterns can be used intentionally in design and art to create interesting visual effects, but they can also be a nuisance or a distraction, particularly in digital images or in printed materials that use fine patterns.

How does the Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion?

The Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion works using a Moiré patterns which is created by the interference of two or more repetitive patterns that are not perfectly aligned. When the patterns are overlaid or placed close together, the peaks and valleys of the patterns can either amplify or cancel each other out, resulting in a new pattern with a different frequency and appearance.

This interference can be understood through the concept of spatial frequency. The spatial frequency of a pattern refers to the number of cycles (repetitions) per unit of distance. When two patterns with different spatial frequencies are overlaid or placed close together, they can interfere with each other to create a Moiré pattern with a different spatial frequency.

For example, consider two grid patterns with slightly different spacings. When these grids are overlaid, some of the lines will line up perfectly, while others will be slightly offset. This creates a new pattern with a different spatial frequency that appears to move or vibrate when the grids are moved or viewed from different angles.

Moiré patterns can also be created by the interference of non-repetitive patterns, such as curved lines or irregular shapes. In this case, the interference is based on the differences in shape and orientation of the patterns rather than their spatial frequency.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several visual illusions that are similar to Moiré patterns and the Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion in that they involve the interference of two or more patterns. Some of these illusions include:

  1. Op Art: Op Art (short for optical art) is a style of art that creates visual illusions through the use of repetitive patterns, such as lines or shapes. Like Moiré patterns, Op Art can create the illusion of movement or depth.
  2. Kinetic Art: Kinetic art is a form of art that involves movement or the illusion of movement. Some kinetic art pieces use repetitive patterns to create the illusion of motion or changing shapes.
  3. Anamorphic Art: Anamorphic art is a type of art that appears distorted when viewed from certain angles but resolves into a recognizable image when viewed from a specific viewpoint. Anamorphic art often uses repetitive patterns or grids to create the illusion of distortion.

Overall, these visual illusions demonstrate the power of perception and the ways in which our brains interpret and process visual information.

Discovery of the Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion

Moiré patterns were first observed and described by French scientist, mathematician, and astronomer, Siméon Denis Poisson, in 1824. Poisson was studying the diffraction of light through a regular grid or mesh when he noticed the appearance of an unexpected pattern caused by the interference of the grid lines. He called this pattern “interference figures” or “Poisson’s figures”.

The term “Moiré” was later coined to describe similar patterns that were created when two different patterns were overlaid or placed in close proximity to one another. The term “Moiré” comes from the French word for “watered silk”, which has a similar rippling appearance.

Since Poisson’s discovery, Moiré patterns have been studied and applied in various fields, including physics, optics, engineering, art, and design. Today, they continue to fascinate researchers and artists alike as a fascinating example of the complex interaction between light, pattern, and perception.


References and Resources

In addition to the Flying Bird Moiré Pattern Illusion, check out our complete list of illusions.

Pyramid Squares Illusion

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Pyramid Squares Illusion

The Pyramid Squares Illusion is a set of concentric squares that can appear as both a pyramid or a hollow column despite just being a series of squares.

If you are interested in learning more about the Pyramid Squares Illusions, scroll down to read more about it.

Pyramid Squares Illusion

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What is the Pyramid Squares Illusion?

The Pyramid Squares Illusion is a set of concentric squares that can appear as both a pyramid or a hollow column despite just being a series of squares.

The illusion is very similar to the Pyramid of Giza Illusion, the Hollow-Faced Illusion and the Crater Illusion.

Pyramid Squares Illusion – The Pyramid of Giza Illusion

The Pyramid Squares Illusion is similar to the Great Pyramid of Giza illusion. In the illusion, the pyramid can appears to be a hollow column or tower, rather than a solid pyramid.

The first view is from directly above the Great Pyramid of Giza. The second from another pyramid shape which, when viewed from the side, can appear like a hollow column.

Giza Pyramid Illusion
Pyramid of Giza Illusion
Pyramid Illusion
Pyramid or Hollow Column?

Pyramid Squares Illusion – Similar to The Hollow Faced Illusion

The Pyramid Squares Illusion is similar to the hollow face illusion which is a type of optical illusion where a concave mask appears as if it is a convex object.

When a person views a hollow mask from the front, the features on the surface of the mask appear to be bulging out, even though they are actually recessed.

This illusion is created by the brain’s interpretation of the visual information it receives from the eyes. The brain uses previous experiences and knowledge to make assumptions about the shape and position of objects in a scene, and in the case of the hollow face illusion, these assumptions lead to a misinterpretation of the actual shape of the mask.

Hollow Faced
Hollow Faced Illusion
From Wikimedia Commons


Pyramid Squares Illusion – Similar to the Crater Illusion

The Pyramid Squares Illusion is similar to the Crater Illusion. The crater illusion is an optical illusion that occurs when looking at a flat image of a crater on a two-dimensional surface, such as a photograph or drawing. The illusion creates the impression that the crater is a raised, three-dimensional object with a convex shape, when in fact it is a depressed area.

This illusion is created due to the way our brains interpret light and shadow on the image of the crater. The brain perceives the light areas on the edge of the crater as raised, while the dark areas in the center of the crater are interpreted as shadows. This creates the impression that the crater is a raised object with a convex shape, rather than a depressed area.

The crater illusion is an interesting example of how our brains use visual cues and information to interpret the world around us, and how these interpretations can sometimes be misleading or incorrect. It is also a reminder of the limitations of our senses and our need to be mindful of the ways in which our perceptions can be influenced by external factors.

Crater Illusion

References and Resources

IPlease check out our complete list of illusions.

Sinking House Illusion

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Sinking House Illusion

This Sinking House Illusion can be found in Montmartre, a district in Paris, near the famous Sacre Coeur church. It’s a simple, but very cool illusion caused by forced perspective.

If you are interested in learning how forced perspective works in illusions like the Sinking House illusion, scroll down to read more about it.

Sinking House Illusion


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What is the Sinking House Illusion?

This Sinking House Illusion can be found in Montmartre, a district in Paris, near the famous Sacre Coeur church. It’s a simple, but very cool illusion caused by forced perspective.

The illusion works by taking advantage of the surrounding environment and forced perspective. The sinking house illusion is a great example of how forced perspective can be used to create illusions and challenge our perceptions of the world around us.

The Sinking House illusion has become quite popular among tourists and has been featured in various media outlets and publications. It is located in the Montmartre district of Paris, which is known for its vibrant arts scene and historical landmarks.

Forced perspective is a technique used in art, architecture, and photography to create the illusion of depth and distance in a two-dimensional space. The technique involves manipulating the visual perception of size and distance by adjusting the scale and positioning of objects in relation to the viewer’s perspective.

In forced perspective, objects closer to the viewer appear larger, while objects farther away appear smaller. This creates the illusion of depth and distance, even in a flat or shallow space. This technique is often used in films to make actors appear larger or smaller than they actually are.

Forced perspective has been used throughout history in various forms of art and architecture, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Renaissance painters and modern-day filmmakers. It continues to be a popular technique today, especially in the fields of architecture, photography, and special effects in movies.

How does the Sinking House Illusion Work?

The sinking house illusion uses forced perspective which works by manipulating the visual perception of size and distance. It takes advantage of the fact that the human brain perceives size and distance based on context and visual cues.

In forced perspective, objects closer to the viewer appear larger, while objects farther away appear smaller. By carefully adjusting the scale and positioning of objects in relation to the viewer’s perspective, an artist or photographer can create the illusion of depth and distance, even in a flat or shallow space.

For example, if an artist wants to create the illusion of a long hallway in a painting, they might draw the lines of the hallway so that they converge at a single point in the distance. This creates the impression that the hallway is receding into the distance, even though it is just a flat surface.

Similarly, in a photograph, a photographer might position a small object close to the camera and a large object farther away, making the small object appear much larger than it actually is in comparison to the larger object. This creates the illusion that the small object is closer to the viewer than it really is.

Forced perspective works best when the viewer is in a fixed position, such as looking at a painting or photograph, or standing in a specific location in an environment designed with forced perspective, like a tilted room or a miniature set. When the viewer moves around, the illusion may break down, as the visual cues and context change.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several similar illusions to the sinking house illusion, which also rely on manipulating visual perception to create an illusion of depth or distance. Here are some examples:

  1. Ames room illusion: This illusion involves constructing a room with an irregular shape, which appears to be a normal rectangular room from a specific viewpoint. When viewed from other angles, the illusion breaks down, making objects and people appear to change in size and shape.
  2. Anamorphic illusions: Anamorphic illusions involve distorting an image or object so that it appears normal when viewed from a specific angle, but distorted when viewed from other angles. Examples include street art that appears as a jumbled mess until viewed from a specific angle, or objects that appear to be elongated or flattened when viewed from certain angles.
  3. Trompe l’oeil: Trompe l’oeil is a type of art that uses realistic painting techniques to create an illusion of depth and three-dimensionality. This can include paintings that appear to be three-dimensional objects, or murals that make it seem like there is a real window or doorway where none actually exists.

Like the sinking house illusion, these illusions play with the viewer’s perception of size, distance, and depth, and rely on visual cues and context to create their effects.


References and Resources

In addition to the Sinking House Illusion, check out our complete list of illusions.

Vector Ball Optical Illusions

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Vector Ball Optical Illusion

These Vector Ball Optical Illusions is created by a series of lines that are arranged in a specific way to create the illusion of a rotating ball. The lines are positioned in such a way that they give the impression of shading and depth, which creates the perception of a three-dimensional object.

If you are interested in learning more about Vector Ball Optical Illusions, scroll down to read more about them.

Vector Ball Optical Illusion
Vector Ball Optical Illusion


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What is the Vector Ball Optical Illusion?

The vector ball illusion is a type of optical illusion that gives the impression of a three-dimensional ball that is rotating in space.

The vector ball illusion is created by a series of lines that are arranged in a specific way to create the illusion of a rotating ball. The lines are positioned in such a way that they give the impression of shading and depth, which creates the perception of a three-dimensional object.

The illusion works by exploiting the brain’s tendency to interpret visual information based on past experience and assumptions. The brain uses visual cues such as shading and perspective to create the impression of three-dimensionality, and the vector ball illusion uses these cues to create the illusion of a rotating ball.

The vector ball illusion is a striking example of how the brain can be fooled by simple visual stimuli, and it has become a popular example of optical illusions on the internet.

How does the Vector Ball Optical Illusion Work?

The vector ball illusion is created by a series of lines that are arranged in a specific way to create the illusion of a rotating ball. The lines are positioned in such a way that they give the impression of shading and depth, which creates the perception of a three-dimensional object.

The key to the illusion is the use of “vectors”, which are lines that indicate the direction of movement in three-dimensional space. The vectors are arranged around a central point and are shaded in a way that suggests the direction of rotation. When the vectors are arranged in a circular pattern, they create the impression of a rotating ball.

However, the illusion works by exploiting the brain’s tendency to interpret visual information based on past experience and assumptions. The brain uses visual cues such as shading and perspective to create the impression of three-dimensionality, and the vector ball illusion uses these cues to create the illusion of a rotating ball.

The illusion is particularly effective because the vectors are arranged in such a way that they create the impression of motion even when the image is static. This is because the brain is wired to detect motion and movement, and the vectors in the vector ball illusion activate these neural pathways, creating the perception of rotation.

Overall, the vector ball illusion is a fascinating example of how the brain can be fooled by simple visual stimuli, and it demonstrates the importance of visual cues in shaping our perception of the world around us.

Some Similar Illusions

There are several other illusions that are similar to the vector ball illusion in terms of their use of shading and perspective to create the impression of three-dimensional space and motion. Here are a few examples:

  1. Rotating snakes illusion: This illusion, also created by Akiyoshi Kitaoka, gives the impression of snakes that are rotating in a circular motion. The illusion is created by a series of curved lines that are arranged in a circular pattern and shaded in such a way that they appear to be moving.
  2. Fraser spiral illusion: This illusion, created by British psychologist James Fraser, gives the impression of a spiral that is expanding outwards from the center. However, the spiral is actually a series of concentric circles that are arranged in a way that creates the illusion of a spiral.
  3. Checker shadow illusion: This illusion, created by Edward H. Adelson, gives the impression of a checkerboard pattern that changes in brightness depending on the surrounding context. The illusion is created by the brain’s tendency to interpret visual information in terms of the surrounding context.
  4. Hermann grid illusion: This illusion, created by Ludimar Hermann, gives the impression of grey spots at the intersections of a grid of black lines on a white background. However, the spots are not actually there, and the illusion is created by the way the brain processes visual information in the periphery of the visual field.

These illusions, like the vector ball illusion, demonstrate how the brain can be tricked into perceiving visual information in a particular way, based on contextual cues and past experiences.

Discovery of the Vector Ball Optical Illusion

Several of the vector ball illusions have been created by Japanese psychologist Akiyoshi Kitaoka. Kitaoka is a well-known researcher in the field of visual perception and is particularly famous for his work on optical illusions. He has created numerous illusions that have gained popularity online, including the rotating snakes illusion, the checker shadow illusion, and the Fraser spiral illusion.

Kitaoka first presented the vector ball illusion in 2005 at the European Conference on Visual Perception. Since then, the illusion has become popular on the internet and has been featured in various media outlets and publications. Kitaoka’s research on visual perception and illusions has contributed significantly to our understanding of how the brain processes visual information and has opened up new avenues of research in the field.


References and Resources

In addition to the Vector Ball Optical Illusion, check out our complete list of illusions.

Purple and Green Illusory Motion

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Purple and Green Illusory Motion

I just love this Cool Purple and Green Illusory Motion image. This is a completely static image. The combination of the unique shapes and shading create the illusion of motion.

If you are interested in learning more about how this Purple and Green Illusory Motion image, scroll down to read more about it.

Also check out these cool examples of illusory motion: Amazing Colorful Illusory Motion and Black and White Illusory Motion and Fun Circles Illusory Motion and Illusory Motion and Super Cool Illusory Motion

Purple and Green Illusory Motion


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What is Illusory Motion in the Purple and Green Illusory Motion Image?

Illusory motion is a type of optical illusion in which stationary images or patterns appear to be moving. This can occur in a variety of ways, such as through the use of patterns with alternating colors or shapes that create the illusion of motion, or by presenting a series of static images in rapid succession to create the perception of motion.

One well-known example of an illusory motion effect is the “rotating snakes” illusion, in which a series of static black-and-white shapes appear to be rotating in a continuous, fluid motion. This illusion is created by using patterns with specific shapes and contrasts that stimulate the brain’s motion-sensitive neurons and create the perception of movement, even though the image itself is not actually moving.

Other examples of illusory motion include the “scintillating grid” illusion, in which the intersections of a grid pattern appear to be flashing or moving, and the “phi phenomenon,” in which a series of static lights flashing in sequence create the illusion of motion.

Illusory motion can be a fascinating and captivating experience, and it has been the subject of much research in the fields of visual perception and neuroscience. Scientists continue to study the underlying mechanisms of illusory motion and other visual illusions in order to better understand how the brain processes visual information and creates our subjective experience of the world around us.

How does Illusory Motion Work?

Illusory motion is caused by the brain’s interpretation of visual information that is presented in a particular way. Different illusory motion effects may be created by different types of visual stimuli, but they all involve the brain perceiving motion where there is none.

One explanation for illusory motion is that it is caused by the brain’s motion-sensitive neurons responding to certain visual patterns or stimuli in a way that creates the perception of motion. These neurons, located in an area of the brain called the visual cortex, are responsible for processing information about motion and spatial relationships in the visual field. When presented with certain visual patterns or stimuli, these neurons can become activated in a way that creates the illusion of motion.

Another explanation is that illusory motion is a result of the brain’s tendency to fill in missing information in order to create a complete and coherent visual scene. When presented with incomplete or ambiguous visual information, the brain may “fill in the gaps” in a way that creates the perception of motion or movement.

In either case, illusory motion is a result of the brain’s complex processing of visual information, and it is influenced by a variety of factors, including the properties of the visual stimuli, the context in which they are presented, and individual differences in perception and interpretation.

Some Similar Illusions to the Purple and Green Illusory Motion

There are many different illusory motion illusions, each created by specific patterns or stimuli that trick the brain into perceiving motion where there is none. Here are some examples of illusory motion illusions:

  1. Rotating snakes illusion: This illusion consists of a pattern of overlapping circles and curves that create the perception of continuous motion, as if the image is rotating in a circular motion.
  2. Motion aftereffect illusion: This illusion occurs when a person views a moving stimulus for a prolonged period of time, and then looks at a stationary object. The stationary object will appear to be moving in the opposite direction of the original stimulus.
  3. Autokinetic effect: This illusion occurs when a stationary point of light is viewed in a dark room for a prolonged period of time. The light will appear to move or “drift” even though it is stationary.
  4. Peripheral drift illusion: This illusion consists of a pattern of intersecting circles and lines that create the perception of motion at the periphery of the visual field.
  5. Barber pole illusion: This illusion consists of a rotating spiral pattern of alternating red and white stripes, which create the perception of upward motion even though the pattern itself is rotating.
  6. Wagon wheel illusion: This illusion occurs when a wheel appears to be rotating in the opposite direction of its true motion, due to the interaction between the frequency of the spokes and the frame rate of the video camera.

These are just a few examples of the many illusory motion effects that have been discovered and studied by researchers in the field of visual perception. Each of these illusions demonstrates the brain’s remarkable ability to create the perception of motion and movement, even in the absence of actual movement.

Discovery of the Illusory Motion

Illusory motion has been known and studied by scientists and artists for centuries, but it is difficult to attribute its discovery or popularization to any single individual or group. The use of visual patterns and stimuli to create the illusion of motion has been explored in various forms of art, such as Op Art and Kinetic Art, and in scientific research on visual perception and neuroscience.

One of the earliest recorded examples of an illusory motion effect is the Zoetrope, a pre-cinematic device invented in the early 19th century that uses a sequence of static images to create the illusion of motion. Other early examples of illusory motion effects can be found in ancient Greek and Roman art, such as the use of mosaic patterns to create the impression of motion and depth.

In more recent times, scientists and artists have continued to explore and experiment with the use of visual illusions to create the perception of motion. Artists such as Bridget Riley and Victor Vasarely are known for their use of geometric patterns and shapes to create illusory motion effects, while scientists have used illusory motion as a tool for studying the brain’s processing of visual information.

Overall, illusory motion is a phenomenon that has been studied and appreciated by many different people throughout history, and it continues to inspire new forms of artistic and scientific exploration.


References and Resources Illusory Motion

In addition to this supercool Illusory Motion example, check out our complete list of illusions.

Concave or Convex Illusion

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Concave or Convex Illusion

In this Concave or Convex Illusion the circles on the left all appear to be convex and all the circles on the right appear to be concave.

There is only one change in the circles that creates this effect. In all other ways, the circles are identical. The difference is in the shading. The circles on the left as light on top, while the circles on the right are light below.

If you are interested in learning more about this Concave or Convex Illusion, scroll down to read more about it.

Concave or Convex Illusion


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What is the Concave or Convex Illusion?

The concave-convex circle illusion is an optical illusion that makes it appear that two identical circles are different only by changing the way that they are shaded. In reality, the circle remains the same shape throughout the illusion.

The key is the shading a which creates a perceived change in curvature of the circles. It is a fascinating example of how our brain can be tricked by visual information and highlights the complexity of perception and interpretation of visual stimuli.

How does the Concave or Convex Illusion Work?

The concave-convex circle illusion works by taking advantage of the way our brains interpret visual information. When we look at the circles, our brains use various visual cues, such as shading and relative size, to interpret their shape and depth. As a result, our brains interpret the concave circle as having a greater depth than the convex circle.

It has been theorized that the light on top is consistent with the sun lighting objects from above, as such, our visual system perceives the shapes on circles on the left to be solid and therefore appear convex.

The concave-convex circle illusion is a great example of how our brains can be tricked by visual information, and it highlights the complex interplay between perception, cognition, and interpretation of visual stimuli.

Some Similar Illusions

There are many similar illusions that take advantage of the way our brains interpret visual information. Here are a few examples:

  1. The Penrose triangle: Also known as the “impossible triangle,” this illusion depicts a triangle that appears to be three-dimensional, but is actually impossible to create in real life.
  2. The Ames room: This illusion uses distorted geometry to make objects appear larger or smaller than they really are, and can create the illusion of people changing size as they move around the room.
  3. The Moiré pattern: This illusion occurs when two or more grids or patterns are overlaid on each other, creating a rippling or pulsing effect.
  4. The Shepard tone: This auditory illusion creates the impression of an infinitely rising or falling sound, even though the pitch is actually staying the same.
  5. The Necker cube: This illusion depicts a cube that appears to flip back and forth between two different orientations, even though it is actually stationary.

These illusions, and many others, demonstrate the remarkable ways in which our brains interpret and process visual and auditory information, and highlight the complexity of perception and cognition.

Discovery of the Concave or Convex Illusion

The concave-convex illusion origin is not entirely clear. It is likely that the illusion has been observed and studied by many people throughout history, as similar illusions have been documented in artwork dating back to the Renaissance period.

One of the most famous examples of the concave-convex illusion can be found in a drawing by the artist M.C. Escher, who is known for his intricate and mind-bending works of art. Escher’s drawing, titled “Convex and Concave,” features a series of interlocking figures that appear to shift in and out of concave and convex shapes.

While it is not clear who first discovered or documented the concave-convex illusion, it has been studied and analyzed by scientists and psychologists for many years. In recent decades, researchers have used advanced imaging techniques and brain imaging technologies to better understand how the brain processes visual information and creates illusions like the concave-convex circle illusion.


References and Resources

In addition to the Concave or Convex Illusion check out our complete list of illusions.

Optical Art Illusions

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Optical Art Illusion

Op Art, short for Optical Art, is a style of art that emerged in the 1960s and is characterized by the use of optical illusions, geometric shapes, and bright colors to create the impression of movement, depth, and visual vibration.

If you are interested in learning more about Optical Art Illusions and seeing some more examples, scroll down to read more about it.

Optical Art Illusion
Victor Vasarely “Zebra”


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What are Optical Art Illusions?

Optical Art, short for Optical Art, is a style of art that emerged in the 1960s and is characterized by the use of optical illusions, geometric shapes, and bright colors to create the impression of movement, depth, and visual vibration.

Optical Art often employs simple geometric shapes such as squares, circles, and lines, arranged in patterns or sequences that create a sense of movement or distortion. The art form relies on the viewer’s perception and the way that the human brain processes visual information, often resulting in images that appear to be pulsing, vibrating, or even moving.

Optical Art is heavily influenced by the scientific and technological developments of the time, such as advances in color television, photography, and printing techniques, which allowed artists to experiment with new forms of optical illusions and visual effects.

The style was popularized by artists such as Bridget Riley, Victor Vasarely, and Yaacov Agam, among others, and has had a significant influence on contemporary art, design, and popular culture. Today, Op Art continues to be a popular style among artists who are interested in exploring the intersection of art and perception.

How do Optical Art Illusions Work?

Optical Art works by exploiting the way the human brain processes visual information. The style relies on optical illusions, such as the Moiré effect, in which the viewer perceives patterns or lines that are not actually present, or the illusion of movement, in which a static image appears to be in motion.

Optical Art often employs simple geometric shapes such as squares, circles, or lines, arranged in patterns or sequences that create a sense of movement or distortion. These patterns and sequences are designed to activate the viewer’s visual cortex, which is responsible for processing visual information and making sense of what we see.

When we view an Optical Art piece, our brain tries to interpret the patterns and shapes it is seeing, leading to various perceptual effects such as the impression of movement, depth, and visual vibration. These effects are created by the contrast between the different colors or shades used in the artwork, as well as the way the shapes and patterns are arranged.

Op Art works because our visual system is constantly trying to make sense of the information it receives, and the style exploits the way our brains process visual information to create images that are visually engaging and dynamic.

Some Examples of Optical Art Illusions

Optical Art is a style of art that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by the use of geometric shapes, bright colors, and optical illusions to create the impression of movement and depth. Here are some examples of Op Art:

Bridget Riley’s “Movement in Squares”: This painting, created in 1961, features a series of black and white squares arranged in a grid that creates the impression of movement and depth.

Optical Art Illusion
Bridget Riley’s “Movement in Squares”

Victor Vasarely’s “Zebra”: This painting, created in 1937, features a series of black and white stripes arranged in a way that creates a sense of vibration and optical illusion.

Optical Art Illusion
Victor Vasarely “Zebra”

Jesus Rafael Soto’s “Penetrable”: This sculpture, created in 1967, features a series of hanging wires that create an immersive, three-dimensional environment in which viewers can move and interact.

Jesus Rafael Soto’s “Penetrable”

Yaacov Agam’s “Double Metamorphosis II”: This sculpture, created in 1964, features a series of rotating panels that create a sense of movement and change depending on the viewer’s perspective.

Optical Art
Yaacov Agam’s “Double Metamorphosis III”:

These are just a few examples of Op Art, which continues to be a popular style among artists and designers who are interested in exploring the intersection of art and perception.

Discovery of Optical Art Illusions

The Optical Art movement emerged in the mid-1960s, and it is difficult to attribute its creation to a single artist or individual. The style was influenced by a variety of artistic and scientific movements of the time, including Abstract Expressionism, Kinetic Art, and the study of color and perception.

Some of the earliest and most influential Op Art artists include Victor Vasarely, Bridget Riley, and Jesús Rafael Soto. Vasarely, who is often credited with coining the term “Op Art,” began creating geometric abstract art in the 1930s and is considered one of the pioneers of the style. Riley, who emerged in the 1960s, is known for her black-and-white paintings that create optical illusions of movement and depth. Soto, who was also active in the 1960s, created sculptures and installations that engage the viewer in an immersive, three-dimensional environment.

Overall, Optical Art was a movement that emerged out of a broader cultural and artistic context, and many artists contributed to its development and popularity in the 1960s and beyond.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Perfect Squares Illusion

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Perfect Squares Illusion

In this Perfect Squares Illusion every one of the red boxes is a perfect square.

To see for yourself, try moving away from the screen so that the black and white lines begin to fade away. As they fade away, you should be able to see the red squares more accurately, as perfectly square.

This illusion is being created by the combination of two famous illusions – the Zöllner Illusion and the Poggendorff Illusion.

Perfect Squares Illusion
Artist Pearl Whitecrow Brown


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What is the Perfect Squares Illusion?

The Perfect Squares Illusion is being created by the combination of two famous illusions – the Zöllner Illusion and the Poggendorff Illusion.

The Zöllner illusion is an optical illusion that involves a series of parallel lines intersected by diagonal lines. The diagonal lines can appear to be either tilted or straight, depending on their orientation and the orientation of the surrounding lines. The illusion was first described by Johann Karl Friedrich Zöllner in 1860. Here is an image of the Zöllner illusion

Zöllner illusion

The Poggendorff illusion is an optical illusion that involves the misperception of the position of a diagonal line that is interrupted by a rectangular object. The illusion was first described by the German physicist Johann Poggendorff in 1860. Here is a picture of the Poggendorff illusion.

Poppendorff Illusion Lines

How does the Perfect Squares Illusion Work?

The Perfect Squares Illusion is being created by the combination of two famous illusions – the Zöllner Illusion and the Poggendorff Illusion.

The Zöllner illusion occurs because the brain tries to interpret the lines as either parallel or tilted, but the diagonal lines disrupt this interpretation. As a result, the brain can perceive the diagonal lines as being tilted in the opposite direction to their actual orientation.

The Zöllner illusion is an example of a geometric-optical illusion, which means that it involves the interaction of geometric patterns with the visual system. This type of illusion occurs because the brain has to interpret the two-dimensional image presented to it as a three-dimensional object in order to make sense of it. In the case of the Zöllner illusion, the diagonal lines can be interpreted as either being on top of or underneath the parallel lines, which can lead to conflicting interpretations of the orientation of the diagonal lines.

The Poggendorff illusion is an optical illusion that involves the misperception of the position of a diagonal line that is interrupted by a rectangular object. The illusion was first described by the German physicist Johann Poggendorff in 1860.

In the classic version of the Poggendorff illusion, a diagonal line is interrupted by a rectangular object that is positioned at an angle to the line. The line appears to be displaced, and the angle at which it crosses the rectangle appears to be different from its true angle.

The exact mechanism behind the Poggendorff illusion is still a matter of debate, but it is thought to involve the brain’s processing of visual information about the angles and positions of objects in space. One theory is that the brain tends to group objects that are aligned in a certain way, and to perceive them as forming a continuous line or curve. When the diagonal line is interrupted by the rectangle, the brain tries to create a continuous path for the line, but this can lead to a misperception of its position and angle.

Another theory is that the Poggendorff illusion is related to the brain’s processing of depth and perspective cues. When the diagonal line is interrupted by the rectangle, the brain may perceive the line as being positioned at a different depth than it actually is, which can lead to a misperception of its position and angle.

Overall, the Poggendorff illusion is a classic example of how the brain can be tricked by visual information, and it highlights the complex processes involved in perceiving the visual world.

Some Similar Illusions to the Perfect Squares Illusion

There are several other visual illusions that are similar to the Perfect Squares Illusion in terms of their effects on the perception of lines and angles. Here are a few examples:

  1. The Hering illusion: In this illusion, two parallel lines appear to be bowed outwards when they are intersected by two diagonal lines that are oriented in opposite directions.
  2. The Müller-Lyer illusion: In this illusion, two lines of equal length appear to be different lengths due to the presence of arrow-like lines on either end of the lines.
  3. The Ponzo illusion: In this illusion, two identical lines appear to be different lengths when they are placed in a converging perspective drawing that includes parallel lines that create the illusion of depth.
  4. The Ebbinghaus illusion: In this illusion, a circle appears to be larger or smaller depending on the size of the surrounding circles, even though the central circle is actually the same size in both cases.

These illusions, like the Perfect Squares Illusion, all involve the brain’s interpretation of visual information about lines, angles, and shapes, and they demonstrate the complexity of visual perception.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

Pinna’s Overlapping Illusion

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Pinna Overlapping Illusion

The Pinna Overlapping Illusion is really a set of concentric circles, but the illusion makes it appear that the circles overlap.

If you are interested in learning more about the Pinna Overlapping Illusion, scroll down to read more about it.

Pinna Overlapping Illusion
Pinna Overlapping Illusion


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What is the Pinna’s Overlapping Illusion?

Pinna’s Overlapping Illusion involves concentric circles that appear to overlap but don’t actually overlap. The illusion is created by interlocking pairs of black and white wavy lines, which are arranged to form a circular pattern of alternating black and white rings. Although the rings appear to overlap in some areas, they actually do not. Instead, the illusion is created by the way the lines are interlocked and how the alternating black and white rings interact with each other.

The perception of motion and swirling patterns in the Pinna’s overlapping illusion is thought to arise from the way the visual system processes information about contrast, luminance, and motion. The illusion also seems to involve the brain’s ability to fill in missing information, and to make assumptions about the shape and arrangement of objects in the visual field.

Overall, the Pinna’s operlapping illusion is a fascinating example of how the brain can be tricked into perceiving complex patterns and motion in static images, and it highlights the complex nature of visual perception and cognition.

How does the Pinna’s Overlapping Illusion Work?

The Pinna’s overlapping illusion is created by the interaction between pairs of interlocking black and white wavy lines, which are arranged to form a circular pattern of alternating black and white rings. The illusion occurs because the visual system processes the black and white lines differently, causing them to appear to shift and move as the viewer looks at the image.

One important factor in the illusion is the way that the wavy lines are interlocked. The lines are designed so that they fit together perfectly, with each black line interlocking with a white line, and vice versa. This creates the appearance of concentric circles that overlap and shift as the viewer looks at the image.

Another important factor in the illusion is the way that the alternating black and white rings interact with each other. When viewed up close, the individual rings appear to be distinct and separate. However, as the viewer steps back from the image, the rings begin to blend together, creating the appearance of a swirling, rotating pattern.

The precise mechanisms that underlie the Pinna’s overlapping illusion are not fully understood, but they are thought to involve the way that the visual system processes information about contrast, luminance, and motion. Specifically, the illusion may be related to the way that the brain processes information about edges and boundaries, and how it makes assumptions about the shape and arrangement of objects in the visual field.

Overall, the Pinna’s overlapping illusion is a fascinating example of how the brain can be tricked into perceiving complex patterns and motion in static images, and it highlights the complex nature of visual perception and cognition.

Some Similar Illusions

There are many visual illusions that are similar to Pinna’s overlapping illusion in that they create the perception of movement, swirling patterns, or overlapping shapes. Here are a few examples:

  1. Fraser Spiral Illusion: This illusion consists of a series of concentric circles that appear to be swirling, even though they are actually static.
  2. Hermann Grid Illusion: This illusion involves a grid of black squares on a white background. In the areas where the grid lines intersect, gray dots appear to appear and disappear, creating the perception of movement.
  3. Mach Bands Illusion: This illusion occurs when a series of gradually changing shades of gray are arranged in alternating light and dark bands. The bands appear to be darker on one side and lighter on the other, even though they are actually the same shade.
  4. Cafe Wall Illusion: This illusion involves a grid of alternating black and white rectangles. The rectangles appear to be tilted, even though they are actually parallel to each other.
  5. Rotating Snakes Illusion: This illusion consists of a series of interlocking wavy lines arranged in a circular pattern. The lines appear to be rotating or swirling, even though the image is actually static.

These illusions, like Pinna’s overlapping illusion, are fascinating examples of how the brain can be tricked into perceiving movement and complex patterns in static images. They also highlight the complex nature of visual perception and cognition.

Discovery of the Pinna’s Overlapping Illusion

Pinna’s overlapping illusion was discovered by Italian psychologists Marco Bertamini and Paolo Livio in 2001. The illusion is named after the Italian psychologist Gianfranco Pinna, who developed a related illusion called the Pinna-Brelstaff figure. Bertamini and Livio’s study, which was published in the journal Perception, demonstrated how the illusion can be created using pairs of interlocking wavy lines arranged in a circular pattern. Since its discovery, the Pinna’s overlapping illusion has become a popular example of a perceptual illusion, and it has been studied extensively by researchers interested in the mechanisms of visual perception and cognition.


References and Resources

Check out our complete list of illusions.

No Curved Lines Illusion

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No Curved Lines Illusion

In the No Curved Lines Illusion, you’ll see both straight and curved lines.

But as soon as you try to focus on a curved line, it will turn into a straight line and curved lines will pop up elsewhere.

In reality, all of the lines are perfectly straight. If you are interested in learning a bit more about how this works, scroll down to learn more about it.

No Curved Lines Illusion


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What is the No Curved Lines Illusion?

The No Curved Lines Illusion has a few illusory effects at play, but perhaps the most important is the Hering Illusion. This illusion involves a series of straight lines that are superimposed on a pattern of radiating lines, which creates the impression that the straight lines are curved or bowed outwards.

The Hering illusion is an example of a geometric optical illusion, which occurs when visual cues such as angles, length, and position are misinterpreted by the brain, leading to a perception that differs from reality. In this case, the radiating lines in the background of the illusion create a visual distortion that makes the straight lines appear to be curved or bowed. Here is a classic view of the Hering Illusion

Hering Illusion

The Hering illusion is named after the German physiologist Ewald Hering, who first described the effect in the late 19th century. It is a well-known example of a visual illusion and has been used in many studies of visual perception and cognition.

How does the No Curved Lines Illusion?

As mentioned, the No Curved Lines Illusion is grounded in the Herring illusion. The Hering illusion works by exploiting the way our brains perceive depth and perspective in images. Specifically, the illusion takes advantage of how our brains interpret the angle of straight lines in relation to other lines in the image.

The Hering illusion consists of a series of straight, parallel lines that are superimposed over a background of converging lines that are angled to create a radial pattern. The convergence of the radial lines creates the impression of depth, and this in turn causes the straight lines to appear to be curved or bowed outwards.

To understand why this happens, it’s important to note that our brains use various visual cues to interpret the position and angle of lines in an image. One of these cues is the way that lines are positioned in relation to each other. When lines are parallel and run in the same direction, our brains interpret them as being straight and not curved. However, when lines are placed at an angle or converge towards a point, our brains interpret them as being curved or bowed.

In the case of the Hering illusion, the background of converging lines creates the illusion of depth and causes our brains to interpret the straight lines as being curved or bowed outwards, even though they are actually straight. This is because our brains interpret the angle of the straight lines in relation to the converging lines, rather than in isolation. The result is a compelling and persistent illusion of curvature, even though there are no actual curves in the image.

Some Similar Illusions – No Curved Lines Illusion

There are several other visual illusions that are similar to the No Curved Lines Illusion in that they also exploit the way our brains interpret depth and perspective to create distorted or misleading images. Here are a few examples:

  1. The Poggendorff illusion: This illusion involves a diagonal line that is interrupted by a rectangle, and a second line that intersects with the rectangle at an angle. Even though the two lines are actually connected, they appear to be misaligned due to the presence of the rectangle.
  2. The Zöllner illusion: This illusion involves a series of parallel lines that are superimposed over a background of diagonal lines. The parallel lines appear to be skewed or distorted due to the presence of the diagonal lines in the background.
  3. The Ponzo illusion: This illusion involves two lines that are the same length, but are placed over a background of converging lines. The line that appears to be farther away from the viewer appears longer than the line that appears to be closer.
  4. The Müller-Lyer illusion: This classic illusion involves two lines of equal length, but with different arrow-like markings at the ends. One line appears shorter than the other, even though they are actually the same length.

All of these illusions, like the No Curved Lines Illusion, exploit the way our brains interpret visual cues such as perspective, angles, and depth to create a misleading or distorted image. They are all examples of how our perception can be influenced by subtle changes in visual stimuli.

Discovery of the Hering Illusion

The Hering illusion is named after the German physiologist Ewald Hering, who first described the effect in 1861. Hering was a prominent figure in the field of visual perception and was known for his research on the physiology of the eye and the brain. He was particularly interested in the way that visual information is processed by the brain and how this leads to the perception of colors, shapes, and patterns.

In his original paper describing the Hering illusion, Hering noted that the effect could be observed in a variety of different contexts, including patterns of radiating lines and curved surfaces. He hypothesized that the illusion was related to the way that the brain processes visual information and interpreted the effect as evidence for the existence of “perceptual space” – a mental representation of the visual environment that is distinct from physical space. Hering’s work on visual perception was highly influential and helped to lay the foundation for modern research on the brain and cognition.


References and Resources – No Curved Lines Illusion

Check out our complete list of illusions.