My Big Book of Art and Illusion

by Silke Vry

Children of all ages will be so utterly absorbed by this collection of artistic illusion, they might not realize they are also learning about great art. With dozens of beautiful reproductions and an engaging, informative text, this children’s book is a fascinating look at artistic illusions through the ages. From mural paintings dating back to Pompeii through examples from nearly every modern movement, Silke Vry reveals how artists fool their audiences with visual tricks, puns, and hidden clues. In addition, she shows kids how to entertain their friends with optical projects they can create at home. For the curious young reader, this compelling book will provide hours of amusement and wonder.

Genres: Nonfiction

64 pages, Hardcover

First published October 25, 2013

Reviews

[Elaine]

I plan to use this for a program for the 2013 Summer Reading Program. We'll do some of the examples in the book, watch some of the suggested videos, and I'll start the program by reading Duck! Rabbit! Perfect for STEAM.

[Fifi · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘whatever you look at and wherever you direct your attention, you can come across confusing and surprising things anytime and anywhere.’
#DeZinVanHetBoek #TheEssenceOfTheBook

Beautiful examples of all kinds of art forms that play tricks on the eye and brains - with pleasant explanations of how that trickery works. Plus practical suggestions to make some optical tricks on your own. Have yet to try these out. Recommended for adults and kids!

[Emmaline MacBeath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of art that is an illusion such as a painting that looks like a boy is walking out of it and a wall painted to look like a you could walk into it to another place. It also describes how illusions work and how to create them yourself. There are some classic examples such as the endless staircase and the duck/rabbit, but there are many modern examples. The book also shows some unusual and unexpected art from around the world.

This book was great fun. My only wish was that it could have been a little longer. This is the type of book where you could stare at each page in fascination for ages and ages before turning to the next one. The fact that it shows how to make your own art illusions makes it perfect for the younger and curious crowd. This is also an excellent book for budding artists due to the art concepts taught (such as perspective). I highly recommend this book for the coffee table, for the classroom, and for just plain fun.
Ages 8 and up would get the most enjoyment out of the more difficult concepts.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not just beautifully printed giant-size optical illusions and tricks, but cogent explanations of how the illusion “works” and why your brain interprets it the way it does. Instructions for how to accomplish similar illusions yourself. Famous illusions from Magritte and Escher as well as contemporary tricksters like Norwegian street artists Skurtur and German performance artist Johan Lorbeer.

Pair this book with Chris Van Allsburgh's The Mysteries of Harris Burdick, an eye-opening book of eerie illustrations in search of an author for a one-two brain punch!