Curiopticals: Amazing Optical Illusions

Is it a bird—or a man? A skull…or an erotic postcard? Curiopticals celebrates one of mankind’s favorite art forms: the optical illusion.

In order to trick the eye, engage the mind, and above all, amuse and delight, illustrators have produced millions of clever visual illusions throughout history. Starting with early, experimental images, this engaging anthology looks at more than 150 of the very best—many previously unpublished.  Most are old, but in an interesting twist, the authors have created some originals in the traditional style, leaving readers to figure out which is which.

Written by two experts in the field, Curiopticals provides a fresh take on a popular topic.

Mankind has always admired art, and optical illusions are an early artform. From the earliest, experimental imagery, this book features all kinds of fascinating optical illusions throughout history. Written by two experts in the field, Curiopticals provides a unique take on a well established subject which both adults and older children will enjoy. Millions of illusions have been produced in the name of science, education and above all fun, and this book looks at more than 150 of them.

Gianni A. Sarcone and Marie-Jo Waeber are co-founders of Archimedes’ Laboratory, an Italian-based training and consulting network of game designers. They invent, create, and develop interactive thinking games and optical illusions, as well as educational materials involving colors and shapes.

Sarcone and Waeber also regularly write columns for newspapers and magazines featuring visual puzzles and math brainteasers. Fervent puzzle enthusiasts, they frequently travel around Europe to give workshops and share their knowledge and ideas at cultural and educational events for both adults and children.