The Art of Trompe L’oeil Painting

How do we combine drawing and painting skills we have already learned to create convincing optical

illusions?

Trompe L’oeil:A style of painting that misleads or deceives the senses

Paintings by John Frederick Peto, 1885, MFA Boston

Trompe L’oeil Louvered Fireboard, Unknown, 1810, MFA Boston

Trompe L’oeil Painting Objective:You will apply your knowledge of 1 point perspective, 2 point perspective, and shading to create a convincing optical illusion of an indentation or opening to another space in the wall. You will, essentially, be making a 2D plane appear to be a 3D space.

Possibilities:

● Shelving/bookcases● A window with a windowsill● A small doorway or cabinet door