Eye Play

I don't know why we are so attracted by things that fool us. I'm guessing that it helps remind us about the fun-fool connection. It's fun to be fooled. At least in some circumstances. Like watching a magician or looking at optical illusions.

Optical illusions are literally a fascinating funonemon, combining play, art and science.

If you're fascinated by the art of illusion, take a look at Akiyoshi's illusion pages from psychologist/artist Akiyoshi Kitaoka, Department of Psychology, Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto, Japan. He has created some stunning, original fool-the-eye works, some of which are available for download.

If you're more interested in the science of illusion, take a look at MIT's professor Edward H. Adelson's interactive collection of illusions and demos. Want more? Then click your way over to the Seeing Exhibit from my favorite interactive science museum, San Francisco's Exploratorium.