From its inception to the present day, anamorphic art has spanned numerous artistic media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art. Anamorphosis employs a range of techniques, including perspective and geometry, to create distorted images that reveal their true meaning when viewed from a specific angle.
These intriguing images capture the interest of artists, graphic designers, and mathematicians alike. In this discussion, we will explore the historical significance and technical aspects of creating and interpreting Anamorphic Art.
What Is an Anamorphic Art?
In anamorphic art, the original artwork is modified, somewhat distorted, to transform it into something else via a mirrored cylinder. However, anamorphic art is not entirely dependent on using a mirrored cylinder; it can also be achieved by having the viewer view the image from a distinct and sharp angle.
An anamorphic image can only be properly interpreted when viewed from a specific angle or through a special optical device, like a mirror, which also visually transforms the image.
The earliest known use of anamorphic techniques dates back to cave paintings from the Palaeolithic era, also known as the Stone Age. These paintings utilised the slanted surfaces of cave walls to create visual illusions.
One of the first examples of anamorphic art was created by Leonardo da Vinci in 1485. He drew an image that appears to resemble a pond in a landscape; however, when the paper is turned and viewed from a different angle, it transforms into the shape of an eye.
During the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, anamorphic images gained immense popularity. Artists often used these techniques to convey or conceal extreme political statements.
What Is an Anamorphosis?
The term "anamorphosis" originates from the Greek word for transformation. Anamorphosis has significantly influenced art and culture, leading to the emergence of various art movements and encouraging artists to explore innovative techniques.
It first appeared in the 17th century in artworks that feature a perspective that may appear distorted under certain conditions but reveals accurate representation in others.
It's important to note that anamorphosis does not simply mean that an image has been stretched, resized, or altered from its original design. It is not merely an illusion. Instead, the appearance of distortion in the image depends on the viewer's point of view.
For instance, an anamorphic image may need to be observed from a specific vantage point or through a special tool, such as a curved mirror, to be fully appreciated.
Anamorphosis Examples
Leonardo's Eye (1485) by Leonardo da Vinci - Some of the earliest examples of anamorphosis can be found on the ceilings of churches in Rome, created by artists like Andrea Pozzo. However, *Leonardo's Eye*, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci and dating to around 1485, is considered the earliest known example of anamorphosis.
Portrait of Edward VI (1546) by William Scrots– This work is an anamorphic portrait attributed to William Scrots, depicting Edward VI when he was just nine years old, one year before he ascended to the throne. It became a significant hallmark of perspective anamorphosis and continued to influence artists long after Scrots's lifetime.
Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Francis de Paul, and Saint Peter Penitent (16th or 17th century) by an Unknown Spanish Artist – This eight-panel painting does not have a single vantage point; instead, it features three distinct perspectives. Depending on the viewer's position relative to the image, they will see a depiction of one of three Christian saints.
On the painting's right, viewers see Saint Francis de Paul, known for his dedication to worship and contemplation of faith. Those standing on the left side will observe Saint Francis of Assisi, who is often associated with the movement of evangelical poverty.
The final vantage point, positioned directly in front of the painting, reveals a penitent Saint Peter, regarded by the Catholic Church as the first Pope. Saint Peter has two tears on his cheek, Saint Francis de Paul carries a note that reads "Charitas," and Saint Francis of Assisi is depicted with a tonsure.
How To Make Anamorphic Art Step by Step?
The easiest technique to create an anamorphic art is to use Photoshop or any other image editing software and follow the given steps-
- Open the image in Photoshop and create a layer. Click on the background and modify it into a layer.
- Modify the picture size and click on Edit and Transform. Using the anchor, drag the control box and click Enter to stretch the image.
- Click on "Edit," then go to "Transform" and select "Perspective. "On the top justify side, grab it and drag the picture to justify and click enter. It can make your picture look fat on top and small near the bottom.
Who Is the Famous Anamorphic Artist?
Some of the famous anamorphic artists are –
- Leonardo da Vinci and Albrecht Dürer are among the first anamorphic artists.
- Hans Holbein the Younger is known for the famous painting "The Ambassadors" (1533)
- John Pugh is famous for creating the 'trompe-l’œil,' which means deceiving the eye. Renaissance painters initially employed this technique to create the illusion of the church ceilings resembling the heavens directly above their heads.
Modern renowned anamorphic artists include:
- Julian Beever, who creates stunning 3D street art using anamorphosis.
- Kurt Wenner is renowned for his intricate and detailed pavement art, which often recreates Renaissance classicism in three dimensions. With years of experience, his work stands out for its complexity and detail.
These artists have made significant contributions to the field of anamorphic art.
Anamorphic Art Painting
Hans Holbein's painting "The Ambassadors" (1533) depicts French diplomats Jean de Dinteville and Georges de Selve. The artwork is notable for its perfect perspective, which may seem unclear at first.
However, if you position yourself at the bottom right-hand corner of the painting, you will discover a human skull. For Holbein, the technique of anamorphosis allowed him to incorporate subtle, abstract messages into a concrete scene.
Influenced by both Protestant and Catholic philosophies, Holbein aimed to convey the idea of "memento mori," a Latin phrase that translates to "remember that you will die." By placing a skull in front of these high-status diplomats, he emphasises the importance of acknowledging one's mortality in all circumstances.
Famous Anamorphic Art
Anamorphic art reached its height during the Renaissance period. In 1935, American ophthalmologist Adelbert Ames Jr. introduced the Ames room, bringing the concept of optical illusions back to the public's attention.
The room was designed as a trapezoid with an inclined floor and a peephole. When viewers looked through the peephole, it seemed as though two subjects—one large and one small—were standing at the same distance. In reality, however, one was standing much farther away than the other.
In recent years, anamorphic art has experienced a resurgence in photography, drawing, and large-scale installations. One notable modern anamorphic piece is Michael Murphy's "Gun Country" (2014).
At first glance, "Gun Country" appears to be a random arrangement of guns suspended in mid-air. However, when viewed from a distance, the 150 guns form the shape of the contiguous United States.
Some modern-day examples of famous anamorphic art include:
- Jonty Hurwitz's sculpture, 'Kiss of Chytrid', which reveals an anamorphic frog when viewed in a mirror.
- Julian Beever's 'Swimming Pool in the High Street', painted on the streets of Glasgow in 2006.
- Scott VanderVoort's hidden tribute to David Bowie, located on the streets of New York.
- Swiss contemporary artist Felice Varini celebrated the 20th anniversary of Carcassonne's listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an anamorphic installation featuring ten giant concentric circles superimposed onto the city’s walls.
- In 2017, the Bercy 2 shopping centre in Paris hosted twelve international artists who created a series of trompe-l’œil frescoes in its shopping arcade.
Anamorphic Illusion Art
Anamorphic illusions gained popularity in the 17th century in Italy and China. The Church of St. Ignazio in Rome features a ceiling painted by Andrea Pozzo, which creates the illusion of a dome on a flat surface.
During World War I, photographer Arthur Mole used anamorphic techniques to create large patriotic images of groups of soldiers, which could be seen from a distance.
In recent years, anamorphic illusions have made a comeback on LED displays and in video content. This technique involves creating distorted projections that require viewers to be in a specific position or use special devices to recognise the intended images.
In the realm of motion graphics and visual effects (VFX), anamorphic illusions enable us to experience video content from specific angles, creating the illusion of a three-dimensional environment.
Modern applications of Anamorphic Illusion Art –
- Anamorphic techniques are increasingly used in various contemporary settings to enhance visual experiences. For example, IMAX screens often incorporate these techniques to elevate the cinematic experience for audiences.
- On the roads, "Bus Lane" markings sometimes employ anamorphic illusions, making the text readable from specific angles.
- Additionally, social media is filled with images of street art that utilise anamorphic effects, often causing viewers to do double-takes.
Anamorphic Definition
The term "anamorphosis" originates from the Greek word "anamorphoûn," which means "to transform." Anamorphic Definition - Anamorphosis is an optical illusion where an image appears completely distorted when viewed from a typical vantage point. However, it looks normal when viewed from a specific angle (known as perspective anamorphosis) or indirectly through a mirror (referred to as mirror anamorphosis).
Types of Anamorphic Art
Anamorphic art can take many shapes and forms, with two main types being:
- Mirror Anamorphosis: This type of artwork appears distorted unless viewed through a curved mirror. A notable example is Steve Field's "Cameo" mosaic at England's Stourbridge Bus Station. In this piece, a conical or cylindrical mirror is positioned at the centre of the artwork. This allows viewers to see the work from various angles, as the curved mirror shortens the elongated lines of the original image, transforming it into something recognisable. This characteristic is a distinct hallmark of mirror anamorphosis.
- Perspective Anamorphosis: In this form, the artwork can be understood from multiple angles, but it relies on the viewer assuming a specific vantage point. It enables artists to explore illusory perspectives and tailor the artwork for a single observer in a particular location. A classic example is Andrea Pozzo's painting on the ceiling of the Jesuit Church of Sant'Ignazio in Rome, which gives viewers standing in the centre the illusion of looking up at a dome with vaults.
The advent of technology has allowed artists to experiment with new forms of anamorphosis, including:
- Dynamic Anamorphosis: This technique uses motion sensors and projection mapping to create interactive installations.
- Digital Anamorphosis: This approach utilises algorithms and software to generate distorted images.
Anamorphosis | Perspective, Illusion, Transformation
An anamorphosis is a distorted image that can only be perceived correctly from a specific angle or when viewed through a special mirror or lens. Artists utilise forced perspective to create this illusion.
Perspective anamorphosis requires the viewer to look at the image from a designated angle. In contrast, mirror anamorphosis, developed in the 17th century, involves the use of a cylindrical mirror to reveal the image in its proper form.
This art form first emerged during the Renaissance, and notable anamorphic artists such as Alessandro Diddi, Fredo, and Ramon Bruin have gained worldwide recognition through their work.
The anamorphic effect transforms images into a three-dimensional appearance, creating the illusion of depth and realism by distorting them to look three-dimensional when viewed from a specific angle.
Who Invented Anamorphic Art?
Anamorphic art was celebrated as a display of technical skill and was included in many drawing manuals of the 16th and 17th centuries. The earliest examples of anamorphic art can be found in Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks.
Inspired by Piero della Francesca's observations regarding the distortion of drawings and paintings at their edges, da Vinci filled his notebooks with anamorphic designs.
His Codex Atlanticus, a collection of drawings created between 1478 and 1519, includes several distorted faces that, when viewed from a specific angle, appear in proper perspective. Leonardo da Vinci is credited with producing the first known definitive example of anamorphosis in the 15th century.
These initial sketches laid the groundwork for the development of anamorphic art during the Renaissance period (approximately 1300-1700). Many of these early pieces employed perspective anamorphosis. Later, in the 17th century, mirror anamorphosis and other types of anamorphic art that required tools for interpretation began to emerge.
Anamorphic art was particularly popular in North America and Western Europe. Historically, the Italian painter and mathematician Piero della Francesca established the foundation for the use of optical illusions in art.
How to Do 3D Anamorphic Artwork?
3D anamorphic art brings life to public spaces by transforming ordinary sidewalks, streets, and walls into extraordinary installations. If you're interested in creating 3D anamorphic artwork, here’s a clear guide on how to get started with anamorphic art:
- Understand anamorphic perspective art techniques: Learn about the concepts of depth on a 2D surface, focusing on principles like foreshortening and vanishing points.
- Choose a Subject: Select a subject for your artwork, such as architecture or objects. Be mindful to avoid elements that may contradict the anamorphic illusion of depth.
- Select a Suitable Surface: Choose a viewing surface, like pavements, walls, or canvases, that allows for optimal angles.
- Use Gridding for Design: Create your anamorphic design using a grid. Ensure you maintain the correct proportions from your chosen viewing angle. Draw grids on both the selected surface and the reference image.
- Outline the Design: Start by outlining the major elements of your design before adding details. Mark the correct initial proportions and the desired perspective.
- Add Depth with Shading and Highlights: Incorporate shading, shadows, and highlights to create the illusion of form, depth, and lighting. Use darker shades for objects that are farther away and lighter shades for those that are closer. Vary the thickness of lines to enhance depth further—thicker lines will appear nearer to the viewer.
- Incorporate Textures: Add realistic surface textures that complement the 3D illusion. Textures should appear less focused as they recede into the distance.
- Choose Appropriate Colours: Use a simple colour palette to prevent breaking the illusion. Avoid complex colours and distracting patterns.
- Photograph Your Work: Take photographs of your artwork to ensure accuracy and evaluate the effectiveness of your design.
- By following these steps, you can create compelling 3D anamorphic art that captivates viewers and transforms the spaces they inhabit.
How To Draw Anamorphic Art for Beginners?
To create an anamorphic image on a 2D surface, you will need the following items: a pencil, an image (either a photograph or a drawing), a ruler, a large sheet of drawing paper or illustration board, and a medium of your choice to complete the drawing (such as ink, colored pencils, or paint).
One of the fundamental techniques used in anamorphic art is the manipulation of perspective. By employing converging lines and vanishing points, artists can create the illusion of a distorted image that appears normal when viewed from a specific angle.
In this example, the distorted image is generated through a grid system, which reveals the normal image when viewed from a designated angle.
Steps to know how to draw anamorphic art:
- Step One: Draw a grid over the selected photo or drawing. You can use Adobe Photoshop to create simplified shapes or utilise regular photo editing tools.
- Step Two: Secure the edge of the image onto a board. Use reference points and draw lines from the top and bottom corners of your reference points (labelled A and B) to the farthest point of your centre line (point C).
- Step Three: Complete the distorted grid by adding additional measurements. For instance, draw a line from each grid point along the right edge of the reference to point C. Then, draw a vertical line downward through point C. Connect point A to point D with a line. Draw vertical grid lines (labelled EF) where line AD intersects the horizontal grid lines.
- Step Four: Sketch light lines that bisect each grid block diagonally, effectively marking an "X" in each block. This will help to achieve a more accurate layout.
- Step Five: Block by block, draw all the hard edges that you observe and include a few extra contours.
- Step Six: View your image straight on, then observe it from the right side of the drawing, at a different angle. The distortion through space should create the impression of accurately drawn proportions, but only from the correct perspective.
- More complex anamorphic installations often utilise multiple viewpoints to achieve a 3D effect. Modern technology has greatly expanded the possibilities of anamorphic art, enabling artists to create intricate and detailed designs using digital tools and software.
Which Artwork Uses Anamorphosis?
Some important examples of anamorphosis are
- Leonardo da Vinci's sketches of distorted human figures and animals showcase his understanding of the principles of anamorphosis.
- A portrait of Edward VI (1546), attributed to William Scrots, also demonstrates the use of anamorphosis.
- Additionally, a skull in the foreground of Hans Holbein the Younger's painting "The Ambassadors" (1533) is based on these same principles.
How To Make Cylindrical Anamorphic Art?
The geometry of cylindrical mirror anamorphoses is quite complex, but there are simple approximations that can produce images nearly identical to the mathematically correct versions. A cylinder can be imagined as a cone with its tip placed at an infinite distance from the base.
In this case, a conical mirror anamorphosis creates images that are spread out in a circular region around the mirror. However, when viewing cylindrical mirror anamorphoses, you look at the cylinder from the side rather than from above.
If the image wraps entirely around the cylinder, you need to move around to observe the various parts of the image, even though the image is actually semicircular.
There are multiple methods to create cylindrical anamorphic art, as outlined below:
How to create cylindrical Anamorphic Art -
- Construct an image from circles: To create an exact, mathematically correct anamorphic image for a cylindrical mirror, you must position the image accordingly. This process does not rely solely on square grids; instead, it emphasises mapping, requiring the creation of a circular grid that establishes a correspondence between Cartesian coordinates and polar coordinates.
- Draw a Grid: Start by drawing a grid and labelling its edges so you can identify the corresponding cells in the circular grid.
- Create a circular grid: Draw a circle with a radius equal to that of your cylindrical mirror. Then, draw some semicircles centred at the same point as the mirror circle. Finally, draw radii at angles of 22.5 degrees to form a circular grid.
- Label the circular grid: Label the circular grid as you did with the square grid. Keep in mind that images in mirrors are reversed from front to back, so account for this when labelling.
- Draw your design: On the square grid, create your design or picture by colouring in the appropriate cells.
- Transform the design: Using the labels on both grids, identify the cell to colour on the circular grid and create the anamorphic version of your design.
- View the final image: Place your cylindrical mirror on the circular grid and look into the mirror to see the restored image.
Additionally, software can be utilised to take images and transform them into cylindrical anamorphic versions. You can estimate the conversion from Cartesian rectangular coordinates to polar coordinates to create the circular grid.
What Phrase Best Defines the Term Anamorphosis?
Anamorphosis is best defined as an optical illusion. Its key principle involves a distorted perspective that is only visible from a specific point of view.
Philosopher Jacques Lacan described anamorphosis as an "existential divorce in which the body vanishes in spatiality." He suggested that these techniques reveal a hidden image within the framework of perspective, bringing back the substance that was lost.
Art critic Jurgis Baltrusaitis noted, "Anamorphosis is not an aberration where the mind's eye subjugates reality; rather, it is an optical trick where the apparent eclipses the real."
