Optical illusions in MIRAGES paintings

About mirages

Op-art is often otherwise known as visualism. Op-art is a very unique variety of abstraction, it is an art style whose task is to influence the viewer’s vision. Influencing the viewers' intellect or emotions is of less importance. This direction belongs to the trend of abstract painting. In his works of the Mirage series, Bartos Saro uses optical illusions and light effects. Additionally, the unique painting technique used by the artist when viewed closely, creates the impression of depth and vibrating movement.

Optical illusions occur as a result of the brain misinterpreting the image under the influence of contrast, shadows, and the use of colors. This phenomenon causes the brain to be mistaken automatically. In other words, delusions arise from the automatic mechanisms of perception that usually aid perception. Therefore under certain conditions, however, they can be misleading.

Additionally, the occurrence of optical illusions is influenced by the cultural context. Our mind learns pattern behaviors, which is why it sometimes interprets phenomena unexpectedly. It can be an interesting tool in creating works of art.

Optical illusions in Bartos Saro painting

Mirage is the phenomenon of creating an apparent image of a distant object. This optical illusion is formed as a result of refraction of light in layers of air. Other meanings of this term are an unbreakable dream, false hopes or appearances, a snot, delusion, illusion. Bartos Saro uses this phenomenon in his op-art paintings.

Mirage – the view itself is a fascinating and captivating mirage. It is a play of light. Mirage is a fascinating reflection and light absorption phenomena. The phenomenon is very changeable – depending on the place from which it is viewed. Lighting is very important, it has the greatest impact on what the viewer sees. In conclusion the picture is constantly changing. For example, they create optical illusions, vibrate, pulsate.

The artist uses lighting effects in his optical illusions artworks. Applies deep dark, matte fragments. Elements of the painting with thick sand paint, with an expressive drawing – they absorb light, Others, covered with thick glass varnish, emit intense reflections – the color covered with them disappears and the reflected light appears. Additionally, metallic surfaces have their own unique color, for example, they shine with aluminum green, copper and gold, aniline blue. Bartos Saro offers us an optical illusion image,  moreover, that is in constant interaction with the viewer.