Check our these awesome colorful Illusory Motion designs. Stare at the design and you’ll see movement even though the are completely static images.
Illusory motion is a perceptual phenomenon in which a stationary image appears to be moving. It occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place.
Illusory motion is a perceptual phenomenon in which a stationary image appears to be moving. It occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place.
Illusory motion can be caused by a variety of visual cues, including patterns of light and shadow, color gradients, and geometrical shapes. One well-known example of illusory motion is the motion aftereffect, also known as the waterfall illusion. This occurs when a person views a rapidly moving image, such as a waterfall, for an extended period of time. Afterward, when they view a stationary image, such as a static picture of a landscape, it appears to be moving in the opposite direction.
Another example of illusory motion is the peripheral drift illusion, in which a stationary image with a pattern of black and white stripes appears to be moving in a circular or spiral pattern. This illusion is thought to be caused by the way in which the visual system processes information from the peripheral areas of the retina.
Illusory motion is a fascinating example of how the brain can be tricked into perceiving motion, even when there is no actual movement taking place. It is also a useful tool for studying the mechanisms of visual perception and the ways in which the brain processes complex visual information.
How does Colorful Illusory Motion Work?
Illusory motion works by exploiting the way in which the brain processes visual information. The visual system is composed of a complex network of neurons that are responsible for processing different aspects of the visual scene, such as color, shape, and motion.
When an image is presented to the eyes, it is first processed by the retina, which converts the light into neural signals that are sent to the brain. These signals are then transmitted to different areas of the visual cortex, where they are further processed and integrated into a coherent representation of the visual scene.
Illusory motion occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place. This can happen in several different ways, depending on the specific type of illusion being experienced.
For example, the motion aftereffect illusion occurs when a person views a rapidly moving image for an extended period of time. This causes the neurons in the visual system that respond to motion to adapt and become less responsive to the original direction of motion. When the person then views a stationary image, the neurons that respond to motion in the opposite direction become more active, leading to the perception of motion in the opposite direction.
Similarly, the peripheral drift illusion occurs when a stationary image with a pattern of black and white stripes is presented to the eyes. The stripes create a pattern that mimics the motion of a rotating spiral or circle, tricking the brain into perceiving motion.
In both cases, the illusion is created by manipulating the way in which the visual system processes information. By understanding how illusory motion works, researchers can gain insights into the mechanisms of visual perception and the ways in which the brain processes complex visual information.
Discovery of Colorful Illusory Motion
The phenomenon of illusory motion has been known for centuries, and many different individuals have contributed to its discovery and study. However, it is difficult to credit any one person with its discovery, as it has been studied by many researchers from a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and visual arts.
One early example of illusory motion can be seen in the work of the ancient Greek artist Zeuxis, who was known for creating paintings that appeared to be moving. In the modern era, researchers such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Joseph Plateau, and Ernst Mach made significant contributions to the study of illusory motion, laying the groundwork for later work in psychology and neuroscience.
Today, illusory motion continues to be a subject of ongoing research and study, and many researchers from around the world are actively working to uncover the underlying mechanisms and implications of this fascinating perceptual phenomenon. While the discovery of illusory motion cannot be attributed to any one individual, its study and exploration has been a collaborative effort across many different fields of research.
What is the The Boxes Aren’t Moving Illusion Illusion?
In this amazing boxes aren’t moving illusion, the boxes do not move at all.
The boxes aren’t moving illusion is one that uses a few techniques to create the impression of motion where there is actually none.
The boxes aren’t moving illusions employs principles from two foundational optical illusions known as Beta Motion and the Scintillating Grid Illusion to create its awesome effect.
How does the The Boxes Aren’t Moving Illusion Work?
The boxes aren’t moving illusions employs principles from two foundational optical illusions known as Beta Motion and the Scintillating Grid Illusion to create its awesome effect.
In the scintillating grid illusion, a grid of intersecting lines is displayed on a black or white background. Small white or light-colored boxes are then placed at the intersections of the grid lines. When the grid is viewed, it appears as if the boxes are moving in a wave-like motion, even though they are actually stationary.
This illusion is created by the interaction of light and dark areas in the grid, which causes the brain to perceive motion where there is none. The dark areas between the boxes create a “negative afterimage” effect in the retina, which causes the brain to perceive motion in the light-colored boxes.
The scintillating grid illusion is a well-known example of a visual illusion and has been studied extensively by researchers interested in perception and visual processing. It’s an interesting example of how the brain can be fooled by simple visual stimuli, and is a reminder that our perception of the world is not always a perfect reflection of reality.
Beta motion, also known as apparent motion, is a type of visual illusion that creates the impression of motion from a series of stationary images.
In beta motion, two or more static images are presented in rapid succession, with each image slightly different from the previous one. When viewed in sequence, the images create the impression of motion, even though each image is actually stationary. This illusion is often used in animation and film to create the impression of movement.
Beta motion works by exploiting the way that the human brain processes visual information. When two images are presented in rapid succession, the brain perceives them as a single object in motion, rather than as two separate images. This is known as the “phi phenomenon,” and is the basis for many types of visual illusions, including beta motion.
Beta motion is an important concept in the field of visual perception and has applications in many areas, including animation, film, and advertising. By understanding how the brain processes visual information, designers and animators can create more effective and engaging visual content that captures the viewer’s attention and imagination.
Discovery of the The Boxes Aren’t Moving Illusion
The boxes aren’t moving illusions employs principles from two foundational optical illusions known as Beta Motion and the Scintillating Grid Illusion to create its awesome effect.
Edward Adelson is a professor of vision science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a member of the MIT Media Lab.
He is known for his research in the field of computer vision, particularly his work on the perception of lightness and the “checkerboard illusion.”
He is also a recipient of the David Marr Prize, which is given by the International Association for Computer Vision to “outstanding young investigators” in the field of computer vision.
The beta movement illusion is a well-known phenomenon that has been studied and described by many researchers over the years.
The earliest known description of the beta movement illusion was made by the German physiologist Ewald Hering in the late 19th century. He observed that the perception of motion can be created by the rapid presentation of a series of static images and called it the “apparent movement.”
However, the term “beta movement” was first coined by the American psychologist Joseph Jastrow in 1899, in his article “The Psychology of the Flip-Book.” Jastrow was one of the first researchers to systematically study the beta movement illusion and to describe the specific conditions under which it occurs.
In summary, While Ewald Hering was one of the first to describe the phenomenon of apparent movement, Joseph Jastrow was credited with coining the term “beta movement” and was one of the first researchers to systematically study the beta movement illusion.
Check our these cool Black and White Illusory Motion designs. Stare at the designs and you’ll start to see them move even though they are completely static images.
Illusory motion is a perceptual phenomenon in which a stationary image appears to be moving. It occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place.
Illusory motion is a perceptual phenomenon in which a stationary image appears to be moving. It occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place.
Illusory motion can be caused by a variety of visual cues, including patterns of light and shadow, color gradients, and geometrical shapes. One well-known example of illusory motion is the motion aftereffect, also known as the waterfall illusion. This occurs when a person views a rapidly moving image, such as a waterfall, for an extended period of time. Afterward, when they view a stationary image, such as a static picture of a landscape, it appears to be moving in the opposite direction.
Another example of illusory motion is the peripheral drift illusion, in which a stationary image with a pattern of black and white stripes appears to be moving in a circular or spiral pattern. This illusion is thought to be caused by the way in which the visual system processes information from the peripheral areas of the retina.
Illusory motion is a fascinating example of how the brain can be tricked into perceiving motion, even when there is no actual movement taking place. It is also a useful tool for studying the mechanisms of visual perception and the ways in which the brain processes complex visual information.
How does Black and White Illusory Motion Work?
Illusory motion works by exploiting the way in which the brain processes visual information. The visual system is composed of a complex network of neurons that are responsible for processing different aspects of the visual scene, such as color, shape, and motion.
When an image is presented to the eyes, it is first processed by the retina, which converts the light into neural signals that are sent to the brain. These signals are then transmitted to different areas of the visual cortex, where they are further processed and integrated into a coherent representation of the visual scene.
Illusory motion occurs when visual cues in the image trick the brain into perceiving motion, even though there is no actual movement taking place. This can happen in several different ways, depending on the specific type of illusion being experienced.
For example, the motion aftereffect illusion occurs when a person views a rapidly moving image for an extended period of time. This causes the neurons in the visual system that respond to motion to adapt and become less responsive to the original direction of motion. When the person then views a stationary image, the neurons that respond to motion in the opposite direction become more active, leading to the perception of motion in the opposite direction.
Similarly, the peripheral drift illusion occurs when a stationary image with a pattern of black and white stripes is presented to the eyes. The stripes create a pattern that mimics the motion of a rotating spiral or circle, tricking the brain into perceiving motion.
In both cases, the illusion is created by manipulating the way in which the visual system processes information. By understanding how illusory motion works, researchers can gain insights into the mechanisms of visual perception and the ways in which the brain processes complex visual information.
Discovery of Black and White Illusory Motion
The phenomenon of illusory motion has been known for centuries, and many different individuals have contributed to its discovery and study. However, it is difficult to credit any one person with its discovery, as it has been studied by many researchers from a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and visual arts.
One early example of illusory motion can be seen in the work of the ancient Greek artist Zeuxis, who was known for creating paintings that appeared to be moving. In the modern era, researchers such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Joseph Plateau, and Ernst Mach made significant contributions to the study of illusory motion, laying the groundwork for later work in psychology and neuroscience.
Today, illusory motion continues to be a subject of ongoing research and study, and many researchers from around the world are actively working to uncover the underlying mechanisms and implications of this fascinating perceptual phenomenon. While the discovery of illusory motion cannot be attributed to any one individual, its study and exploration has been a collaborative effort across many different fields of research.
In the Tennis Ball illusion, a series of balls or other objects appears to be moving in a straight line, but in fact, they are following a curved path. The illusion is created by manipulating the position and spacing of the balls, so that they create a series of curves that the eye has difficulty perceiving.
The curvature blindness illusion is thought to be related to the way that the visual system processes information about motion and curvature. The brain tends to interpret motion along the shortest possible path, or “geodesic,” between two points. However, when the spacing and arrangement of the objects is carefully manipulated, the geodesic path appears to be a curve, rather than a straight line.
The curvature blindness illusion is a striking example of how our visual system can be fooled into perceiving something that is not actually there. It also highlights the complex and often counterintuitive ways in which the brain processes visual information.
How does the Tennis Ball Illusion Work?
The “curvature blindness illusion” or the “tennis ball illusion” works by exploiting the way that the visual system processes information about motion and curvature.
When we see a series of objects moving, our brains tend to interpret the motion as happening along the shortest possible path, or “geodesic,” between two points. However, when the spacing and arrangement of the objects is carefully manipulated, the geodesic path appears to be a curve, rather than a straight line.
In the case of the tennis ball illusion, the balls are spaced and arranged in such a way that they create a series of curves, even though they are actually moving in a straight line. The arrangement of the balls is designed to be subtle enough that the eye has difficulty perceiving the curvature, but strong enough to create a convincing illusion of a curved path.
One theory behind the tennis ball illusion is that it is related to the way that the visual system processes information about edges and boundaries. When two objects are close together, they create a strong boundary that the visual system interprets as a curve. By carefully manipulating the spacing and arrangement of the objects, the illusionist can create a series of boundaries that suggest a curved path, even though the objects themselves are moving in a straight line.
The tennis ball illusion is a fascinating example of how our brains can be fooled by subtle visual cues. It also highlights the complexity of visual perception and the ways in which the brain processes information about motion, shape, and spatial relationships.
Discovery of the Tennis Ball Illusion
The tennis ball illusion is a relatively recent discovery and it is not attributed to a single individual. The illusion was first described in a scientific paper in 2005 by researchers Peter Thompson and Kyriaki Mikellidou at the University of York in the United Kingdom. However, it is possible that other researchers or illusionists may have discovered the phenomenon independently around the same time or earlier.
Since its discovery, the tennis ball illusion has become a popular topic of study among researchers interested in visual perception and cognition. It has also been featured in numerous public demonstrations and exhibitions, showcasing the ways in which our visual system can be fooled and deceived by subtle cues and manipulations.
Similar Illusions
There are many other visual illusions that are similar to the tennis ball illusion in that they involve manipulating visual cues to create misleading or counterintuitive perceptions. Here are a few examples:
The Müller-Lyer illusion: This classic illusion involves two lines with arrowheads at either end. One line appears longer than the other, even though they are actually the same length.
The Ponzo illusion: This illusion involves two horizontal lines of equal length that are superimposed on a set of converging diagonal lines. The top line appears longer than the bottom line, even though they are actually the same length.
The Ebbinghaus illusion: In this illusion, two circles are surrounded by circles of varying sizes. One circle appears larger than the other, even though they are actually the same size.
The motion aftereffect: This illusion involves staring at a moving object for a period of time and then looking at a stationary object. The stationary object appears to be moving in the opposite direction.
The color assimilation grid illusion: This illusion involves a grid of colored squares, where the colors of the squares appear to be influenced by the colors of the squares around them.
These illusions, along with many others, demonstrate the complex and often surprising ways in which the brain processes visual information. They have fascinated researchers and laypeople alike for centuries, and continue to inspire new insights into the nature of perception and cognition.
This Purple Peripheral Drift illusion is an optical illusion that is characterized by the appearance of a spiral pattern made up of concentric circles. This version is very similar to one called Primrose Field.
In peripheral drift illusions, the image or pattern appears to move or drift, even though it is actually stationary. This movement is caused by the brain’s attempt to interpret the image or pattern, which is often complex or ambiguous. The movement can be in any direction, such as horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
The peripheral drift illusion is a visual illusion that involves the perception of movement or rotation in stationary objects or patterns located in the peripheral vision.
The illusion typically involves a pattern of parallel lines or concentric circles that appear to be rotating or moving, even though they are actually stationary. This effect is thought to be caused by the way that the visual system processes information from the peripheral vision, which tends to be less precise and more sensitive to motion than the central vision.
One theory behind the peripheral drift illusion is that it is caused by interactions between the neurons in the visual cortex, which respond to different orientations and directions of motion. When these neurons are activated in a specific pattern, they can create the illusion of movement or rotation even in stationary objects.
The peripheral drift illusion is a fascinating example of how the brain can create illusions and distortions in our perception of the world around us. It is also a useful tool for studying the neural mechanisms that underlie visual perception and processing.
How does the Purple Peripheral Drift Illusion Work?
The peripheral drift illusion works by exploiting the way that the visual system processes information from the peripheral vision. The peripheral vision tends to be less precise and more sensitive to motion than the central vision, which means that it can be easily fooled into perceiving motion or rotation in stationary objects.
One way to create a peripheral drift illusion is to use a pattern of parallel lines or concentric circles. These patterns are known to activate specific neurons in the visual cortex that are sensitive to orientation and direction of motion. When these neurons are activated in a specific pattern, they can create the illusion of motion or rotation in the peripheral vision.
Another way to create a peripheral drift illusion is to use a technique called “contrast modulation.” This involves changing the contrast of different parts of a visual stimulus in a rhythmic pattern. This can create the impression of movement or rotation, even though the stimulus itself is stationary.
The exact neural mechanisms that underlie the peripheral drift illusion are still not fully understood. However, it is thought to involve interactions between different populations of neurons in the visual cortex, as well as feedback from higher brain regions that help to integrate visual information from different parts of the visual field.
Discovery of the Purple Peripheral Drift Illusion
It is not clear who first discovered peripheral drift illusions. These type of illusions have been observed and studied by various researchers over time, and many studies have contributed to the understanding of the phenomenon.
Peripheral drift illusions have been observed since the early 20th century and have been studied by various researchers in the field of visual perception, including scientists, psychologists, and neuroscientists.
Some of the early studies on peripheral drift illusions were conducted by the German physiologist Ernst Mach in the late 19th century, and later by the German psychologist Max Wertheimer in the early 20th century.
In the 20th century, several scientists and researchers have made significant contributions to the understanding of peripheral drift illusions and the underlying neural mechanisms, such as the American psychologist J.J. Gibson, the American neuroscientist David Hubel, and the British neuroscientist Melvyn Goodale.
It is likely that peripheral drift illusions were discovered by multiple individuals independently
The Very Similar Primrose Field Illusion
Primrose Field by Kitaoka AkiyoshiIn is a peripheral drift illusion where the image or pattern appears to move or drift, even though it is actually stationary. This movement is caused by the brain’s attempt to interpret the image or pattern, which is often complex or ambiguous. The movement can be in any direction, such as horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
Peripheral drift illusions are interesting to study because they can reveal how the visual system processes information and can help us understand the underlying neural mechanisms of visual perception.
This spiral illusion is an optical illusion that is characterized by the appearance of a spiral pattern made up of concentric circles.
The illusion is created by the placement of a series of curved lines that appear to be spiraling inwards, with the center of the spiral appearing to be moving.
A spiral illusion, also known as a swirling illusion or vortex illusion, is a type of optical illusion that creates the impression of a spiral or vortex shape in a two-dimensional image or pattern.
The illusion is created by using contrasting colors or patterns arranged in a circular or spiral shape. The colors or patterns are designed in such a way that they appear to be moving inwards or outwards, creating the illusion of a three-dimensional spiral or vortex.
One famous example of a spiral illusion is the “Fraser Spiral Illusion”, named after British psychologist Sir James Fraser who first described it in 1908. In this illusion, a series of black and white arcs are arranged in a spiral pattern. Despite the arcs being completely circular and not actually spiraling, the arrangement of the arcs creates the illusion of a spiral.
Spiral illusions are popular in optical art and are often used to create dizzying or disorienting effects. They are also used in scientific studies to explore the way the brain processes visual information and to investigate perception and cognition.
How does the Spiral Illusion Work?
Spiral illusions work by exploiting the way our brain processes visual information. Our visual system relies on a combination of sensory information and cognitive processing to create our perception of the world around us. Optical illusions like spiral illusions take advantage of this by presenting visual information that conflicts with our expectations or assumptions about the world, leading to a distorted or incorrect perception.
In the case of spiral illusions, the contrasting colors or patterns arranged in a spiral or vortex shape create a visual conflict between what we see and what we expect to see. The brain processes the contrasting colors or patterns in a way that creates the illusion of movement, either inwards or outwards, which gives the impression of a spiral or vortex shape.
The brain also uses other cues, such as depth perception and context, to create our perception of visual stimuli. Spiral illusions often use these cues to further enhance the illusion, such as by creating the impression of a three-dimensional object or by using other visual elements to create a sense of movement or rotation.
Overall, spiral illusions work by exploiting the complex processes and mechanisms that our brain uses to create our perception of the world, leading to a distorted or incorrect perception that can be surprising or even unsettling.
Discovery of the Spiral Illusion
The illusion is named after the psychologist James Fraser who first described this illusion in 1908.
Sir James Fraser was a British psychologist who made important contributions to the field of perception and cognitive psychology.
He was born in 1854 and died in 1941. He is best known for his work on visual perception, particularly for his description of the Fraser spiral illusion in 1908.
Fraser studied at Cambridge University and later became a professor of psychology at University College London.
He made a significant contribution to the study of visual perception, and his work on the Fraser spiral illusion helped to establish the field of cognitive psychology, which focuses on how the brain processes and interprets information.
He also made contributions to other areas of psychology such as memory and attention. He was knighted in 1935 for his services to psychology.
Mardi Gras is a festive holiday that is celebrated in many countries around the world, most notably in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. The name “Mardi Gras” is French for “Fat Tuesday,” and it refers to the day before the Christian season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.
Traditionally, Mardi Gras is a day of excess, with people indulging in rich foods and drinks and engaging in raucous celebrations. In some places, there are parades with colorful floats, costumes, and music. In New Orleans, for example, Mardi Gras is a major cultural event that lasts for several weeks, with parades and other festivities taking place throughout the city.
To help you celebrate we’ve created this collection of purple, gold, and green illusions. If you are interested, you can also check out our collection of 75 Mardi Gras Fun Facts.
Mardi Gras Illusions
None of these Mardi Gras illusions images are GIFs. All of the motion is an illusion.
Mardi Gras Illusions – Illusory Motion
These illusions are types of illusory motion. With Illusory motion, static images appears to be moving due to the interaction of color contrasts, shapes, and position.
If you are interested in learning more, you can check it out here in your article on illusory motion.
Mardi Gras Illusions – How does Illusory Motion work?
Illusory motion, also known as motion illusion, is the perception of movement in a static image or pattern.
This can occur when the brain is presented with a series of static images that change over time, or when certain visual patterns are arranged in a specific way.
The brain interprets these as if they are moving, even though the image or pattern itself is not actually moving.
There are several theories that try to explain the underlying mechanisms of illusory motion.
One theory is that it is a result of neural adaptation, where the visual system becomes adapted to certain stimuli and continues to respond as if they were present even after they are removed.
Another theory is that it is a result of the brain’s tendency to perceive patterns and to fill in missing information, known as Gestalt principles.
Mardi Gras Illusions – Table of Contents for More Information About Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras Illusions – A Brief History of Mardi Gras
The history of Mardi Gras is rooted in ancient pagan traditions and evolved over time into a Christian celebration. Here is a brief history of Mardi Gras:
Ancient Pagan Celebrations: Mardi Gras has its roots in ancient pagan celebrations that honored the coming of spring and fertility. These festivals often involved feasting, drinking, and revelry.
Roman Festival of Saturnalia: The Roman Festival of Saturnalia, which was celebrated in December, was a time of feasting and gift-giving. It is believed that some of the traditions from this festival, such as wearing masks and costumes and parading through the streets, were later incorporated into Mardi Gras celebrations.
Christian Influence: When Christianity spread throughout Europe, the pagan celebrations were often incorporated into the Christian calendar. Mardi Gras, which is French for “Fat Tuesday,” is celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent.
Medieval Europe: In medieval Europe, Mardi Gras was celebrated as a last hurrah before the period of fasting and abstinence that marked Lent. It was a time for indulging in rich foods and excess before the austerity of Lent.
New Orleans: Mardi Gras was brought to the United States by French explorers who settled in the region that is now Louisiana. The first Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans was held in 1699, and the tradition has continued to this day, with elaborate parades, costume balls, and other festivities.
Contemporary Celebrations: Today, Mardi Gras is celebrated in many parts of the world, with unique traditions and customs that reflect the local culture. While the celebration has evolved over time, it continues to be a time of revelry, excess, and indulgence before the period of Lenten sacrifice and reflection.
Mardi Gras – 75 Mardi Gras Fun Facts
In addition to Mardi Gras illusions, here are 75 fun facts about Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is also known as Shrove Tuesday, Fat Tuesday, and Pancake Day.
The colors of Mardi Gras are purple, green, and gold, which represent justice, faith, and power, respectively.
The first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans took place in 1837.
The official Mardi Gras colors were chosen in 1872 by the Krewe of Rex.
The first Mardi Gras celebration in the United States was in Mobile, Alabama in 1703.
The first Mardi Gras celebration in North America was in 1699, in what is now Mobile, Alabama.
In some countries, such as France, Mardi Gras is also known as Carnival.
Mardi Gras is celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of the Christian season of Lent.
Lent is a period of fasting and penance that lasts for 40 days leading up to Easter.
Mardi Gras is a time for excess and indulgence before the start of the Lenten season.
The largest Mardi Gras celebration in the world takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Mardi Gras is a legal holiday in the state of Louisiana.
The term “krewe” refers to a group that organizes a Mardi Gras parade or ball.
The first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans was organized by the Mistick Krewe of Comus in 1857.
Mardi Gras is the busiest time of year for the New Orleans Police Department.
The famous Mardi Gras bead toss originated in the 1880s.
The King and Queen of Mardi Gras are chosen by the Krewe of Rex.
Mardi Gras Indians are a group of African American revelers who dress up in elaborate costumes.
The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club is one of the oldest and most famous African American krewes in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in many other countries besides the United States, including France, Spain, Italy, and Germany.
In Louisiana, the official state pastry for Mardi Gras is the king cake.
King cakes are decorated with purple, green, and gold sugar and contain a small plastic baby inside.
The person who finds the baby in the king cake is traditionally responsible for bringing the next king cake to the next gathering.
The tradition of throwing beads during Mardi Gras parades began in the 1920s.
The first Mardi Gras parade in Mobile, Alabama was held in 1711.
The Krewe of Proteus is the oldest continuously active Mardi Gras krewe in New Orleans.
The Krewe of Zulu was founded in 1909 and is one of the most popular krewes in New Orleans.
The Rex organization was founded in 1872 and is one of the oldest and most prestigious krewes in New Orleans.
Mardi Gras is a popular time for tourists to visit New Orleans, with over one million visitors during the 2019 celebration.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in many other cities besides New Orleans, including Mobile, Alabama, Galveston, Texas, and Pensacola, Florida.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in many different ways around the world, with each culture putting its own spin on the holiday.
In some countries, such as Italy, Mardi Gras is known as Carnevale and is celebrated with elaborate parades, masquerade balls, and other festivities.
The city of Nice, France is known for its Carnival of Nice, which is one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations in the world.
The Spanish city of Tarragona is known for its Carnival of Tarragona, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The German city of Cologne is known for its Rose Monday Parade, which is the largest carnival parade in Germany.
The city of Basel, Switzerland is known for its Fasnacht celebration, which is one of the oldest and largest carnival celebrations in Switzerland.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in many other parts of the world as well, including the Caribbean, South America, and even parts of Asia.
In many cultures, Mardi Gras is a time for feasting and enjoying rich foods before the start of the Lenten season.
The tradition of throwing beads during Mardi Gras parades is said to have originated in the 1920s as a way to promote tourism in New Orleans.
The tradition of throwing other trinkets during Mardi Gras parades, such as cups and toys, also became popular in the 20th century.
The first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans featured floats, masks, and torches.
The Mistick Krewe of Comus, which organized the first Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, was inspired by the literary works of John Milton and William Shakespeare.
The King and Queen of Mardi Gras are traditionally crowned at the Rex Ball, which is held on Mardi Gras night.
The Rex organization is responsible for selecting the King and Queen of Mardi Gras each year.
The Mardi Gras King is also known as the Rex, which is Latin for “king.”
The Mardi Gras Queen is also known as the Queen of Carnival.
The Krewe of Zulu traditionally crowns its own King and Queen each year, as well as a Zulu Witch Doctor.
The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club was founded in 1909 and was one of the first African American krewes in New Orleans.
The Zulu parade is known for its unique throws, which include coconuts and hand-decorated Zulu spears.
The Mardi Gras Indians are a group of African American revelers who dress up in elaborate, hand-sewn costumes that are inspired by Native American traditions.
The Mardi Gras Indians are organized into “tribes,” each with its own chief, queen, and other officials.
The Mardi Gras Indian tradition is believed to have originated in the late 19th century as a way for African American communities to celebrate Mardi Gras in their own way.
The Mardi Gras Indian tradition was also a way for African Americans to pay homage to Native Americans, who had helped slaves escape to freedom along the Underground Railroad.
The Mardi Gras Indians are known for their colorful, intricate costumes, which can take up to a year to make.
The Mardi Gras Indians are also known for their unique music, which is a fusion of African, Native American, and jazz influences.
The Mardi Gras Indian tradition is still alive and well in New Orleans today, with dozens of tribes participating in the annual Mardi Gras festivities.
The Krewe of Proteus is known for its elaborate and artistic parade floats, which often feature mythical creatures and other fantasy themes
The Krewe of Endymion is one of the largest and most popular krewes in New Orleans, and its parade is known for featuring celebrity guests, such as musicians and actors.
The Krewe of Bacchus is another popular krewe in New Orleans, and its parade is known for featuring massive, elaborate floats.
The Krewe of Rex is one of the oldest krewes in New Orleans, and its members are known for wearing elaborate costumes and masks during their parades.
Mardi Gras colors are purple, green, and gold, with each color symbolizing a different aspect of the celebration. Purple represents justice, green represents faith, and gold represents power.
The tradition of King Cake during Mardi Gras is believed to have originated in medieval France and is now a staple of Mardi Gras celebrations in Louisiana and other parts of the United States.
King Cake is a sweet, cinnamon-flavored pastry that is shaped like a ring and is often decorated with purple, green, and gold icing or sugar.
Hidden inside each King Cake is a small plastic baby, which is said to bring good luck and is a symbol of the baby Jesus.
The person who finds the baby in their slice of King Cake is traditionally responsible for providing the next King Cake for the group.
Mardi Gras is celebrated in other parts of the world by different names, including Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Day, and Fat Tuesday.
In the United Kingdom, Pancake Day is celebrated on Shrove Tuesday and involves eating pancakes as a way to use up rich foods before the start of Lent.
In Poland, the day before Ash Wednesday is celebrated as Tłusty Czwartek, which means “Fat Thursday,” and involves eating large amounts of doughnuts and other sweet treats.
The city of Mobile, Alabama claims to have the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, dating back to 1703.
The Mardi Gras celebration in Mobile, Alabama includes parades, balls, and other festivities, and is known for its unique MoonPie throws.
MoonPies are a type of snack food that consists of two round graham cracker cookies with marshmallow filling, covered in chocolate.
The tradition of MoonPie throws during Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama is believed to have started in the 1970s and has since become a signature feature of the celebration.
The Mardi Gras celebration in Lafayette, Louisiana includes the Courir de Mardi Gras, which is a traditional Mardi Gras run that involves chasing a chicken and collecting ingredients for a communal gumbo.
The Mardi Gras celebration in St. Louis, Missouri includes a parade that features Clydesdale horses from the Anheuser-Busch brewery, which is based in St. Louis.
The Mardi Gras celebration in Galveston, Texas includes parades, masked balls, and other festivities, and is known for its elaborate costumes and intricate parade floats.
Mardi Gras Illusions – Mardi Gras Legends
There are several legends and stories associated with Mardi Gras. Here are a few:
The Legend of Comus: Comus is a mythical figure who represents chaos and revelry. According to legend, Comus appeared in New Orleans during the early 19th century and inspired the city’s first Mardi Gras parade.
The Legend of Zulu: The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is one of the oldest and most popular African American krewes in New Orleans. According to legend, the krewe was formed in the early 20th century by a group of African American laborers who wanted to participate in Mardi Gras festivities but were excluded from the city’s white-only krewes.
The Legend of Mardi Gras Indians: The Mardi Gras Indians are a group of African American men and women who dress up in elaborate feathered and beaded costumes and perform in Mardi Gras parades. According to legend, the tradition of Mardi Gras Indians dates back to the 19th century, when African American slaves in Louisiana were inspired by Native American culture and began creating their own elaborate costumes.
The Legend of Rex: Rex is the king of the carnival in New Orleans, and his krewe is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the city. According to legend, Rex was inspired by a visit from the Russian Grand Duke Alexis in 1872, and his krewe has been an integral part of Mardi Gras celebrations ever since.
The Legend of the Baby in the King Cake: The tradition of hiding a small plastic baby inside a King Cake is said to have originated in medieval France, but there are several legends associated with the practice. One popular legend is that the baby represents the baby Jesus, and whoever finds it in their slice of cake will have good luck for the coming year. Another legend is that the person who finds the baby is responsible for hosting the next Mardi Gras party.
Mardi Gras Illusions – Mardi Gras Traditions
There are many traditions associated with Mardi Gras, and they can vary depending on the location and culture. Here are some common Mardi Gras traditions:
Parades: Mardi Gras parades are a central part of the celebration in many locations, including New Orleans, Mobile, and Galveston. The parades feature elaborate floats, marching bands, and costumed participants who throw beads, trinkets, and other goodies to the crowds.
Costumes and Masks: Many Mardi Gras celebrations involve wearing costumes and masks. The costumes can be elaborate and often feature the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold. Masks are also a common feature of Mardi Gras, and they allow participants to be anonymous and join in the revelry without being recognized.
King Cake: King Cake is a traditional dessert that is associated with Mardi Gras. The cake is shaped like a ring and is decorated with the Mardi Gras colors. It is usually filled with cinnamon, nuts, and sugar, and often has a small plastic baby hidden inside. Whoever finds the baby is said to have good luck for the coming year.
Beads: Beads are a common item thrown from parade floats during Mardi Gras. In some locations, such as New Orleans, collecting as many beads as possible is considered a part of the celebration.
Masking: In New Orleans, there is a tradition of “masking,” where people wear masks and costumes and parade through the streets on Mardi Gras day.
Throws: In addition to beads, parade participants often throw other items to the crowds, such as stuffed animals, cups, and doubloons (coins with the krewe’s emblem on them).
Krewes: Krewes are organizations that put on the parades and other events during Mardi Gras. They often have elaborate themes and costumes, and are responsible for selecting the King and Queen of the carnival.
Ash Wednesday: Mardi Gras culminates on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. Many people attend church services and receive ashes on their foreheads as a reminder of mortality and repentance.
Mardi Gras Celebrations by Country
Mardi Gras is celebrated differently in various parts of the world, with unique customs and traditions depending on the location and cultural influences. Here are a few examples:
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA: New Orleans is one of the most well-known cities for Mardi Gras celebrations. The festivities typically include parades, costume balls, and the throwing of beads and other trinkets to the crowds. In addition, there are various traditional foods and drinks associated with Mardi Gras, such as King Cake and Hurricanes.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Mardi Gras in Brazil is known as Carnival, and it is one of the biggest and most elaborate celebrations in the world. The festivities feature samba parades, elaborate costumes, and street parties that go on for days. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Venice, Italy: In Venice, Mardi Gras is known as Carnevale, and it is celebrated with elaborate masquerade balls and parades. The city is known for its ornate costumes and masks, and there are numerous events and performances throughout the city during the two weeks leading up to Mardi Gras.
Mobile, Alabama, USA: Mobile is one of the oldest cities in the United States, and it is known for its Mardi Gras celebrations, which date back to the early 1700s. The festivities feature numerous parades, costume balls, and other events, and the city is known for its elaborate and colorful floats.
Nice, France: Nice is known for its extravagant Mardi Gras celebrations, which include flower parades, fireworks, and giant papier-mâché figures. The parades feature elaborately decorated floats and costumed participants who throw flowers and other items to the crowds.
Quebec City, Canada: In Quebec City, Mardi Gras is known as Carnaval, and it is celebrated with various outdoor activities and events, such as ice skating, snow rafting, and ice sculptures. The festival features colorful costumes and a mascot named Bonhomme, a large snowman who presides over the festivities.
Binche, Belgium: Binche is known for its unique Mardi Gras celebrations, which feature Gilles, who are men dressed in elaborate costumes and masks. The Gilles dance through the streets, and they are known for throwing oranges to the crowds. The festivities in Binche are recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
These are just a few examples of the different ways that Mardi Gras is celebrated around the world. Each location has its own unique customs and traditions that reflect its cultural history and influences.
The Ouchi illusion is an optical illusion that involves a set of parallel lines that appear to be curved or wavy, even though they are actually straight. The illusion is named after its creator, Japanese psychologist and artist Kokichi Sugihara, who designed the illusion in 2016.
In the Ouchi illusion, a series of parallel black and white bars are arranged in a particular way so that the white bars are slightly angled towards the left, while the black bars are slightly angled towards the right. When viewed from a certain angle, the bars appear to be arranged in a series of smooth, undulating curves, creating the impression of a wavy or curved pattern. However, when viewed from a different angle or with a mirror, the true parallel nature of the bars becomes apparent.
The Ouchi illusion is an example of how the brain can be fooled by visual cues that suggest a particular pattern or shape, even when that pattern or shape is not actually present in the image. The illusion has been the subject of scientific study, with researchers exploring the neural mechanisms that underlie our perception of visual patterns and the ways in which our brains construct a sense of shape and form from the visual information available to us.
The Ouchi illusion works by taking advantage of the way that the brain processes visual information, particularly our perception of angles and curvature.
The illusion is created by arranging a series of parallel lines, with the white lines angled slightly to the left and the black lines angled slightly to the right.
When we view the image from a specific angle, the brain interprets the arrangement of the lines as a series of smooth curves or waves, rather than as a set of straight, parallel lines.
This occurs because the angles of the lines create an optical effect that suggests a curving or undulating pattern, and the brain interprets this effect as evidence of curvature in the image.
The illusion is further enhanced by the contrast between the black and white bars, which makes the curvature appear more distinct and pronounced.
The precise neural mechanisms that underlie the Ouchi illusion are still the subject of scientific study, but they likely involve complex interactions between different parts of the brain involved in visual processing and perceptual decision-making.
Versions of the Ouchi Illusion
The following are some other examples of the Ouchi Illusion:
The following are some other examples of illusions that employee similar principles as the Ouchi Illusion:
From Wikimedia Commons
Illusions like the Ouchi Illusion
The Ouchi illusion is a type of geometric and motion optical illusion.
Specifically, it is an example of an illusion that involves the misperception of angles and curvature in a visual pattern.
Geometric optical illusions typically involve the manipulation of lines, angles, and other geometric shapes in a way that leads to a distorted or ambiguous perception of the image. In this case, they create the appearance of motion in a static image.
The Ouchi illusion is an example of how small variations in the orientation of parallel lines can create a strong impression of curvature or undulation, despite the fact that the lines themselves are straight.
The following are some illusions related to Ouchi Illusion:
In Peripheral Drift illusions, the image or pattern appears to move or drift, even though it is actually stationary. This movement is caused by the brain’s attempt to interpret the image or pattern, which is often complex or ambiguous. The movement can be in any direction, such as horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
From Wikimedia Commons
With Illusory motion, static image appears to be moving due to the interaction of color contrasts, shapes, and position.
The rotating snakes is a peripheral drift illusion that consists of a grid of shapes, with some of them appearing to be rotating or undulating. The illusion is created by the interaction of the shapes with the neural processing of the visual system.
A Version of Rotating Snakes
The Moiré pattern illusion: This illusion is created by superimposing two similar patterns on top of each other, such as a grid of lines or circles. The resulting pattern appears to be moving or changing.
From Wikimedia Commons
The Scintillating Grid Illusion, in which a grid of black and white squares appears to pulsate or “breathe” when viewed from the periphery of the image.
The Zöllner Illusion, in which parallel lines appear to be tilted or bent when intersected by diagonal lines.
The Fraser Spiral Illusion, in which a pattern of short, curved lines appears to form a spiral.
The Hering illusion is a visual illusion that involves the perception of curved lines as being bowed inwards or outwards. In the illusion, the red lines appear to curve. In realty, the red lines are perfectly straight.
The Hering Illusion
The Café Wall Illusion is a visual illusion that is created by a grid of alternating light and dark horizontal and vertical lines. The lines appear to be bent or tilted, even though they are actually straight.
These illusions are usually caused by the way our eyes process visual information and the way the brain interprets it. They can also be caused by the interaction of different visual elements, such as lines and angles, in the image. They are often used in research on visual perception and the neural basis of perception.
Discovery of the Illusory Motion
The illusion is named after its creator, Japanese psychologist and artist Kokichi Sugihara, who designed the illusion in 2016.
Kokichi Sugihara is a Japanese mathematician, artist, and professor emeritus at Meiji University in Tokyo. He is best known for his work on optical illusions and impossible objects, particularly his development of the concept of “impossible motion” – the creation of three-dimensional objects that appear to move or rotate in physically impossible ways.
Sugihara has created many well-known optical illusions, including the “ambiguous garage roof” and the “shadow cube,” and has won numerous awards for his work, including the Best Illusion of the Year Award in 2010 and 2018. He has also published numerous papers on topics such as computer graphics, robotics, and topology, and has been a visiting professor at institutions around the world.
Sugihara’s work has been influential in the field of perception and visual cognition, and has shed light on the ways in which the brain processes visual information and constructs a sense of space and motion from the world around us.
A transformation illusion works by manipulating the visual cues that the brain uses to perceive motion. The brain uses a combination of sensory information, including changes in image brightness, color, position, and contrast, to construct a sense of motion from a static image. When these cues are manipulated, the brain can be tricked into perceiving motion where there is none.
For example, the wagon wheel effect is a type of transformation illusion that occurs when spokes in a spinning wheel appear to change direction or disappear. This illusion is caused by the visual system’s sensitivity to changes in position, combined with the high temporal resolution of the retina, which allows the visual system to process multiple changes in position per second. As the wheel rotates, the spokes change position rapidly, and the brain perceives this rapid change as a change in direction.
Another example of a transformation illusion is the background segregation illusion, in which a static image appears to separate into foreground and background elements that move independently. This illusion is created by manipulating the contrast between different parts of the image, and the brain’s sensitivity to changes in contrast over time. The brain uses these changes in contrast to construct a sense of motion, even though the image itself is static.
In both of these examples, the transformation illusion works by manipulating the visual cues that the brain uses to perceive motion. By doing so, the illusion tricks the brain into perceiving motion where there is none, creating a visually striking and compelling effect.
Versions of Transformation Illusions
The transformation illusion is a type of optical illusion that occurs when a static image appears to change over time. This type of illusion is created by manipulating the visual cues that the brain uses to interpret motion, such as apparent motion, the phi phenomenon, and beta movement.
One classic example of a transformation illusion is the wagon wheel effect, which occurs when spokes in a spinning wheel appear to change direction or disappear. Another example is the background segregation illusion, in which a static image appears to separate into foreground and background elements that move independently.
Transformation illusions can be created using a variety of techniques, such as animation, video projection, and anaglyph stereo imaging. These illusions demonstrate the power of visual perception to construct a sense of motion from static stimuli and highlight the complex and dynamic processes involved in visual perception.
The following are some other examples of Transformation Illusions
From Wikimedia Commons
From Wikimedia Commons
Illusions like Transformation Illusions
The following are some illusions related to Transformation Illusions
In Peripheral Drift illusions, the image or pattern appears to move or drift, even though it is actually stationary. This movement is caused by the brain’s attempt to interpret the image or pattern, which is often complex or ambiguous. The movement can be in any direction, such as horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
From Wikimedia Commons
The rotating snakes is a peripheral drift illusion that consists of a grid of shapes, with some of them appearing to be rotating or undulating. The illusion is created by the interaction of the shapes with the neural processing of the visual system.
A Version of Rotating Snakes
With Illusory motion, static image appears to be moving due to the interaction of color contrasts, shapes, and position.
The Moiré pattern illusion: This illusion is created by superimposing two similar patterns on top of each other, such as a grid of lines or circles. The resulting pattern appears to be moving or changing.
From Wikimedia Commons
The barber pole illusion is an optical illusion that is characterized by the appearance of a spiral pattern on a vertically striped pole.
The illusion is created by the interaction of the contrasting colors of the stripes with the motion of the pole, which can make it appear to be moving in a spiral pattern.
he barber pole illusion is often used to study the neural mechanisms of visual perception, particularly the way that our brains process and interpret motion.
The Scintillating Grid Illusion, in which a grid of black and white squares appears to pulsate or “breathe” when viewed from the periphery of the image.
The Hermann Grid Illusion, in which the intersections of a white grid on a black background appear to be gray, even though they are actually the same color as the background.
The Zöllner Illusion, in which parallel lines appear to be tilted or bent when intersected by diagonal lines.
The Fraser Spiral Illusion, in which a pattern of short, curved lines appears to form a spiral.
The Café Wall Illusion is a visual illusion that is created by a grid of alternating light and dark horizontal and vertical lines. The lines appear to be bent or tilted, even though they are actually straight.
These illusions are usually caused by the way our eyes process visual information and the way the brain interprets it. They can also be caused by the interaction of different visual elements, such as lines and angles, in the image. They are often used in research on visual perception and the neural basis of perception.
Discovery of Transformation Illusions
The phenomenon of optical illusions and the concept of visual perception have been studied by many scientists and artists throughout history, so it is difficult to attribute the discovery of transformation illusions to a single person.
However, some of the earliest scientific studies of visual perception and optical illusions were conducted by the German psychologist and physicist Hermann von Helmholtz in the late 19th century. Helmholtz was one of the first to systematically study the ways in which the visual system constructs a sense of the world from sensory input, and he made important contributions to our understanding of visual perception and the mechanisms underlying optical illusions.
Hermann von Helmholtz was a German physician, physicist, and philosopher of science who lived from 1821 to 1894. He was one of the most influential figures in the development of modern physics and biology and made important contributions to a wide range of fields, including optics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and the physiology of perception.
Helmholtz is best known for his work in the field of sensory physiology, where he made pioneering contributions to our understanding of how the senses work and how the brain processes sensory information. He was one of the first to systematically study the ways in which the visual system constructs a sense of the world from sensory input, and he made important contributions to our understanding of visual perception and the mechanisms underlying optical illusions.
In addition to his work in sensory physiology, Helmholtz made important contributions to the fields of physics, mathematics, and philosophy, and he was widely recognized as one of the leading scientific thinkers of his time. Today, he is remembered as one of the founders of the tradition of scientific naturalism and as a pioneering researcher who helped to lay the foundation for modern theories of perception and the science of optics.
Since then, many scientists, artists, and psychologists have studied and explored the phenomenon of optical illusions and the various types of illusions, including transformation illusions. While it may be difficult to identify a single person who discovered or popularized transformation illusions, this area of research continues to be an active and important field, with new findings and insights being added all the time.
It’s also not clear who first discovered illusory motion. Some credit Aristotle in approximately 350 BC.
But these type of illusions have been observed and studied by various researchers over time, and many studies have contributed to the understanding of the phenomenon.
For example, peripheral drift illusions have been observed since the early 20th century and have been studied by various researchers in the field of visual perception, including scientists, psychologists, and neuroscientists.
Some of the early studies on peripheral drift illusions were conducted by the German physiologist Ernst Mach in the late 19th century, and later by the German psychologist Max Wertheimer in the early 20th century.
In the 20th century, several scientists and researchers have made significant contributions to the understanding of peripheral drift illusions and the underlying neural mechanisms, such as the American psychologist J.J. Gibson, the American neuroscientist David Hubel, and the British neuroscientist Melvyn Goodale.
Tessellation is a technique used in mathematics, art, and architecture where a two-dimensional plane is covered with repeating shapes without any gaps or overlaps.
The repeating shapes are called tessellation patterns or tessellations, and they are typically made up of regular polyggonal shapes such as squares, triangles, or hexagons.
Tessellation has been used for centuries to create illusions, decorative designs, to build tiled floors and walls, and more recently in computer graphics and video games. In mathematics, tessellations are studied as a part of geometry, where they are used to explore concepts such as symmetry and repeat patterns.
Tessellation works by repeating a single shape, or a set of shapes, in a regular pattern to cover a two-dimensional plane without any gaps or overlaps. The key to creating a tessellation is to find a shape, or set of shapes, that can be repeated in such a way that the edges of each shape meet and fit together seamlessly. The most common shapes used in tessellation are regular polyggonal shapes such as squares, triangles, and hexagons.
In order to create a tessellation, the shape or shapes must be transformed in some way so that they fit together perfectly. For example, the shapes can be rotated, reflected, or scaled to create the tessellation pattern. This transformation is what allows the shapes to repeat seamlessly and form a tessellation.
There are several types of tessellations, including periodic tessellations, which repeat in a regular pattern, and non-periodic tessellations, which do not repeat in a regular pattern. Each type of tessellation has its own unique properties and can be used to create different effects. Whether used for practical purposes such as floor or wall tiles, or for artistic expression, tessellation is a powerful technique for creating repeating patterns in two-dimensional space.
Versions of Tessellation Illusions
The following are some alternate versions of Tessellation Illusions:
Illusions like Tessellation Illusions
Tessellation is not an illusion by itself/ It is a real physical phenomenon that occurs when a two-dimensional plane is covered with repeating shapes without any gaps or overlaps. However, tessellations can be used to create optical illusions, such as when an artist creates a tessellation pattern that gives the impression of three-dimensional shapes or motions. In this sense, tessellation can be used as a tool to create illusions, but the tessellation itself is not an illusion.
There are several illusions that are similar to tessellation or use tessellation as a technique. Here are some examples:
Escher-style tessellations: M.C. Escher was a Dutch artist who was famous for creating tessellation patterns that appeared to form impossible constructions or scenes. These tessellations often use repetition and symmetry to create optical illusions.
Tessellated moire patterns: A moire pattern is created when two repeating patterns overlap and interact with each other. When tessellation patterns are used to create moire patterns, the result is a mesmerizing optical illusion.
Tiling illusions: Tiling illusions are similar to tessellations, but they use different shapes and patterns to create the illusion of depth, movement, or three-dimensionality. For example, a tiling illusion may use squares of different sizes or colors to create the illusion of a curved surface.
Kaleidoscopic patterns: Kaleidoscopic patterns are created by repeating a set of shapes in a symmetrical pattern, often with reflections. Kaleidoscopic patterns can be created using tessellation shapes, and they are often used to create mesmerizing optical illusions.
The following are some illusions that are similar:.
The Rotating Snakes is a peripheral drift illusion that consists of a grid of shapes, with some of them appearing to be rotating or undulating. The illusion is created by the interaction of the shapes with the neural processing of the visual system.
The Moiré pattern illusion: This illusion is created by superimposing two similar patterns on top of each other, such as a grid of lines or circles. The resulting pattern appears to be moving or changing.
From Wikimedia Commons
The Scintillating Grid Illusion, in which a grid of black and white squares appears to pulsate or “breathe” when viewed from the periphery of the image.
The Zöllner illusion is a visual illusion in which parallel lines appear to be angled due to the presence of intersecting lines.
The illusion is often used to study the brain’s perception of shape and spatial relationships. It is considered one of the most powerful and striking examples of a geometrical-optical illusion. The perception of the illusion can be explained by the brain’s tendency to group lines together based on their similarity in direction and spacing, which can lead to an overestimation of the angle between the parallel lines.
The Cafe Wall Illusion is a geometric optical illusion that is created by the alignment of parallel lines in a checkerboard pattern. The parallel lines appear to be tilted or slanted, even though they are actually straight.
This illusion is caused by the interaction of the lines with the edges of the squares in the checkerboard pattern, which creates the illusion of depth and perspective.
The Café Wall Illusion
The Wundt illusion is an optical illusion produces an inversed effect compared to the Hering Illusion. The vertical lines are both straight, but they may look as if they are curved inwards.
The following MC Escher creations employ tessellation:
“Relativity” – A lithograph that depicts a world where gravity and direction are relative and interchangeable.
“Waterfall” – A woodcut print that features a seemingly impossible flow of water that cascades upward and through a gear system before falling back down into a pool.
“Sky and Water I” – A woodcut print that features an intricate pattern of birds and fish that seem to transform into each other.
“Day and Night” – A woodcut print that features a world where the boundary between day and night is fluid and interchangeable.
“Metamorphosis III” – A lithograph that features a series of interlocking shapes that seem to change and transform into one another.
“Hands Drawing Hands” – A lithograph that features a series of hands drawing hands, creating a never-ending cycle of creation.
Discovery of Tessellation
Tessellation has been used by many cultures throughout history, so it’s difficult to attribute its discovery to a single person. Some of the earliest known examples of tessellation can be found in ancient Egyptian and Greek art, where tessellated patterns were used to decorate floors and walls.
However, the artist who is perhaps most closely associated with tessellation is M.C. Escher, a Dutch artist who lived from 1898 to 1972. Escher was famous for his mathematically inspired art, which often featured tessellation patterns that appeared to form impossible constructions or scenes. He popularized tessellation as an art form and inspired a generation of artists and mathematicians to explore the possibilities of this technique.
Through his work, Escher helped to bring tessellation to the attention of a wider audience and demonstrated its potential as a tool for artistic expression and visual storytelling. Today, tessellation is widely recognized as an important element of mathematical and artistic heritage, and it continues to inspire new generations of artists and mathematicians alike.
