Illusions are Everywhere
Is an illusion an obsession or perception? Whichever theory is supported, the arguments are nevertheless useful for various fields. Op-art - a style of abstract art which displays motion images without using a sequence of images - is the most commonly associated field with illusions. Lenticular techniques are also used on print media to show multiple images on one sheet of paper. M.C Escher is a famous illusionist painter who based his work on accurate mathematical statements and scientific theories. In psychology, Gestalt theories use black and white images to analyze and test a patient's conditions. Physically built environments are also appropriate areas for applying various techniques of illusion. James Carpenter, an architect who designed the Dayton Residence, implemented optic lenses to reflect the sky and use it as a pattern on the wall. Another example is a material called Lumisty film. The material controls the viewer's ability to see through an open or closed space. In Melbourne, Eureka Tower Carpark shows an alluring wayfinding solution using distorted letters which spell "up" and "down", "in" and "out" on the walls which can be read perfectly only when viewed from the proper position. Optical Illusions are also found in nature in the form of mirages.
How about sight and touch? Place a rubber hand model on the table and hide your opposing hand under the table. When someone tickles the rubber hand on the top of the table, you can feel it on your hidden hand below. The other example of sensory illusion is the aural illusion, Tritone Paradox discovered by Diana Deutsch. In this recording, some people hear the two notes going from low to high, while others hear them going from high to low. The notes being played are called the tritone - it falls exactly in the middle of a standard musical scale. This note was once considered to be evil and was not used in music until modern times. Not only are there the aforementioned examples, but many various usages of illusions exist. Different kinds of illusion have captured more attention than others. Historically, these fields of illusions have operated independently. |
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