SNACK A DAY - Your Essential Daily Dose

By Arnie on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

Very nice!

By Justin on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

These pictures suck. All that’s happening in every one of them is a very rough transition from fantasy to reality. A more gradual transition and these could have been very nice. It’s like coloring a page page black and going straight to white. You could add some grey and ease the transition. Either way, these are horrible.

By Vlad on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

oh damn you Justin :)) They’re simply nice. What were you looking for?

By Chris on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

I see what justing is saying, as the majority of the pictures are not optical illusions (as titled), but are simply very interesting transitions from fantasy to reality. At the same time, just take the time to appreciate them. They’re still really nice pictures.

By Will on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

Justin is an idiot, while most of them are transitions they are complex and show ingenuity, if you can do better Justin let’s see it. I’d also like to point out, that they are illusions. Like the children building the skyscrapers. The artist made the skyscrapers appear both far away and on top of the picnic table at the same time. It’s the same thing Escher did Escher Illusions. The artist of these just made a more realistic transition than Escher, who pushed everything to the extreme. This artist focused on things that could be perceived, like photographic illusions that make it appear that someone is kicking down the ‘Leaning Tower of Pisa’ …they just used paints instead of a camera…and some imagination. That’s my two cents.

By jon on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

“if you can do better Justin let’s see it.”
I hate comments like this. I cant build a car so I cant complain. I cant sign laws so I cant complain. There is tons of stuff I cant or don’t want to do that doesn’t mean I have to shut up.

By Milena on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

Can you tell us who the artist is? I love them by the way. I think they are pretty imaginative and beautifully drawn.

By Frank Olivares on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

Awesome…really nice work…

By Kadirhan on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

They are amazing !!!

By Steve on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

fuck you justin.

By Ahhhh on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

For your information, theses are not optical illusion. They are just artwork that ask the question of perception and reality.

By Carlos on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

I am with Justin, these pictures really suck.

By Danny on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

Awesome paintings, especially like the 1st 3rd and 8th pictures

By gnotalex on Dec 25, 2007 | Reply

They’re (at least most of them, I think), the work of Canadian Rob Gonsalves, an illustrator for children’s books. More here:

http://blogquebecois.com/2006/05/imagine_a_day.html

By Anonymous on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Why do people feel they must voice their unhappiness? If you don’t like them, ignore it. If you do like them, voice your opinion - your thoughts about them, some criticism, any suggestions. There is no use simply to leave a comment saying “These pictures suck”. That is a worthless comment especially when there is someplace in the internet that contains the artwork you desire.

Anyhow, I liked many of these pictures with a couple of them standing out as excellent. Great job, and I look forward to seeing more.

By Friedbeef on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Nice pics - optical illusions no - but still a good read - thanks for sharing

By Bryan on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Wow, These are great and a few are rather disturbing

By DB3 on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Douchetard!

By Dirk on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

beautiful; I really love them!

By Henry on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

While not exactly original, still rather lovely.

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

I am frightened of these pictures. I am sure they do not show the truth. Why is this being made to scare me? Does Justin want me upset?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

They are not all the same

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Why would Justin want me unwell?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

Please to not show anymore.

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

abasits, are you making joke of my message?

i try not to make fun of other people. i haven;t been ridiculed before you. have you answer as to why justin is angry?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

why would person want me or other person to be unhappy through words in posts?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

are lots of people making posts from america? is this what american is like?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

can you say why each person is angry?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

ab, whaT RE YOUR OTHER POSTs ? I would like to view them if i may?

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

i think somepeople are upset and working for men they despise. i met lady yesterday. deep unsettled and no goal more than making funds. no sight of breen grass or skie(s) or animals from her apartment. nothing to be lived. no life to live. years to endure. maybe leads to spite, acid, bitter words.

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

i have met some people want to live joyfully. others wet from religion. some with drug. unhappy for most.

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

some like justin. will rip days for ego.

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

do you proseltise online? have you done much good? is it forum to help unworthy people? I have no religion, but think people would be best served by being educated beyond rank potato status usually seen in USA

By Lida on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

splendid. i thought you seemed very apartisan. believe me i need no entreaty to “chill”. i am delighted you profess to love this medium of self expression. the picures, by the way, are divine. do you paint? or draw? or write? I would love to know.

I write, a little. nothing of any real note…

do tell.

By raspberrybubble on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

well done abasits. merry xmas and happy new yr to u. found this page on stumble upon

By They are... on Dec 26, 2007 | Reply

…not optical illusions, but surrealist images using illusionist techniques. Gonsalves has won awards for his work and is collected internationally. This means more people think his art is good than people who think it’s bad. You don’t like it? Write to whoever issues the Governor General’s Award in Canada.

By Ztheo on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Justin…Shut the fuck up! The transition to and from reality is rough! Wake up to the hurricane winds of change and be ready for the shift of life….”But, oh, wait for me it must not be too rough..” Give us a break…There is only a fine line that we walk on in our minds that are conditioned to “reality”. Those whom’s houses are being foreclosed on are not seeing a “smooth” transition but are digging their nails into their skins begging for survival…the wake up call to reality is a goddamn punch in stomach. Obviously your mind is limited to the imposed societal views of the masses of other sheep. These pictures represent the dichotomy of human perception and ultimately consciousness.

By greg on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

“These pictures suck” and other comments like that are just horrible. If that is your mind set on everything you are going no where in life, and you just drag people down with you. If you don’t like something either change it, give criticism or dont do anything. For the sake of art and the artist dont say it simply sucks. Good art is hard to make. Once you get out of the rut of everything “sucks” and learn that things are allowed to “suck” maybe you can start doing something with yourself.
Not everyone was immediately amazing at everything all the time.

By skydancer on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Lida, please take your medication now.
Thanks.

By flowingblotter on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

This “justin” suffers from penis envy. Always holding his piss untill his body forces him to dribble savory bits of infantile brain matter through his tiny crooked flacid member. Just ignore him and this serious illness of his should correct itself with time.

By vmzk on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

yeah this justin guy sucks
hese obviously never heard of echer so hese a moron but they could be better

By OMG on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

THE MORE IMPORTANT STUMBLE ON THIS PAGE IS IN THE POSTS>>>> READ LIDAS POST SHES A FUCKIN SOCIOPATH OR SOMETHING, THAT BITCH IS CRAZY OR BORED OR SOMETHING!

By OMG on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

+ ztheo doesnt know anything about art

By Tex Everett on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Great work. Something I’ve experimented with a little but its hard to get a good result like this. Well done!!

By Musicman on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

When Sam Goldwyn ( a film producer from way back) was told by a critic that one of his films was no good, he said to the critic, “Who the hell are you to say my film’s no good?” to which the critic replied, ” Who do you have to be?” The same with the drawings. I can’t draw, but I don’t think the artist above are any thing special. If one is going to put their work on display to the world, be prepared to have it criticised. Not everyone is a genius.

By K9srCool on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

That the pictures posted are nice and well executed illustrations appreciated by some but not others does not give license to posters who use this venue to insult, ridicule, attack, or belittle other posters. Such incivility expressed anonimously is similar to the road raged imbeciles who for reasons unknown feel compelled to spew their toxic waste. Come on, give people a break, and as expressed in an earlier entry if you do not like it, keep it to yourselves. And if you can not, please find a worthwhile cause where you can expend some of your excess energy and pent up hostility.

By Cerebrate on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

K9sr sucks.

By Joel on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Why is it that on every forum or blog, that there is some goddamn jerkoff named either Justin, Josh or Jason that has to piss on someone else’s fine efforts? Personally, I think he’s the load his mother should have swallowed!

By Violetz on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

I think they would be wonderful ideas for puzzles!!

By Rick on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Justin, the point of those pictures is to have a drastic jump from reality into fantasy or the other way around. These people are obviously artist’s and I’m positive they have more know how and knowledge then you can ever even hope to experience. Go back to your color by numbers cum dumpster.

By RIGBERT on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

I like the illustration of the living room with the trees. There’s peaceful places

By Ztheo on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Yes, LIDA is a freak of freaks.

By Ztheo on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

+ OMG please piss off! What kind of comment is “Ztheo doesn’t know anything about art”.

By tadpoleangel on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

I thought that these were very clever and well done. They made me think. I really enjoyed them.

By SmartGuy on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

So where are the illusions? Someone doesn’t know what an illusion is.

By varken on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

my personal review

(+): there’s a lot of effort put into the images. the color, composition, detail … hey, surrealism ! - it all fits! at first glance, it looks as if an adventure is about to start!

let’s have a second look.

(-): at second glance, every picture looks like a fake optical illusion: not an illusion at all. i think an illusion is entertaining if it is challenging: once you start thinking about it you can’t stop until you get somewhere. i think escher did better, but only because he was first.

conclusion: it looked promising.

hey boys and girls: can we do a drawing competition instead of arguing?

(pardon my english)

By yo on Dec 27, 2007 | Reply

Wow Has to be the best page on the entire web. There has never been anything like this in the history of mankind. this should win some kind of oscar or emmy or something. They should pre empt the super bowl and show these pictures instead. The king of england should knight whoever painted them. He should be elected the emperor of the universe!

By Anonymous on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

those aren’t illusions..they are just cool transition drawings

By d on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

wow..I just stumbled across this and first ..nice pictures… secondly it’s art… your allowed opinions, but being rude is just rude….
seriously… it saddens me people like justin are out there…but they are and I doubt they will ever change… thats why I am an artist..to cause conversations like these…

p.s… justin you suck ! lol

By Revollusion on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

gnotalex thanks for the Artist’s info and link. Awesome illustrations. I was stumbled here.

By greg on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

very interestig. you should check out some of m.c. escher’s work

By soemone awesome on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

DIE JUSTIN DIE!

STAB STAB STAB

J/k.

Awesome pixx

By Allen on Dec 28, 2007 | Reply

Very nice presentation. It is interesting how others see the our world through art and the interpretations that can be so different.
Allen

By Mike on Dec 29, 2007 | Reply

These pics are great!

P.S. Justin YOU suck, and not the pictures.

By Scarlett_156 on Dec 29, 2007 | Reply

Really cool and interesting artwork. I was using Stumbleupon and found these pictures and was very entertained by them. Artist Rob Gonsalves has a new fan: Me!

By Pastafarian on Dec 29, 2007 | Reply

I have to agree with Justin. I didn’t see a single optical illusion in these pictures. I did see illustrations that show transitions between reality and fantasy.

By Rich on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

Forget the damn optical illusions! They’re creative artwork and inspire terrific thought processes in terms of their combination of different natural and human realities tied together through geometry in various degrees of abstraction. Just enjoy them for what they are and the imaginations they conjure up.

By Dora on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

These are very beautiful illustrations.

By Rigberts on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

I’ve seen houses on top of hills that are so old they give the illusion to be part of the hill

By amber on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

some of these are cool

By Cheryl on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

I read most of the reviews and persoanlly I liked the work shown here. But even if I didn’t I would have the courtesy to respect another’s work. To appreciate the differences. I am particularly intrigued by hte last one. Where the creek bends and becomes the upper part of a tree. You gave 3 dementional fel to a 2 dementional object. Wonderful!

By Freddy on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

Justin is right,

By salva on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

All of them are from Rob Gonsalves. Really nice.

By New Autos on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

Rich,
Thank you for an insightful comment!! I cant stand when ppl are way to critical about things that are phenomenal.

By Mouse on Dec 30, 2007 | Reply

I’m not sure what crack you guys are smoking, but these pictures really do suck.

There are a “few” which showcase some talent, but the majority aren’t very well drawn at all. Of course, it isn’t the artists fault that they mis-titled this page with “Optical Illusions”. That being said, these are generic and unimaginative. Every one of these pictures has been done by other artists long before these.

These pictures are the equivalent of a “made for tv” version of a popular film, in that hoping that rehashing someone elses ideas will lead to praise because “it is art”.

Not all art is good, as is evidence here.

The coloring is dull and lifeless, the transitions are poorly thought out and in some cases out of place, and the overall picture leaves one feeling no different than before they saw it.

Justin - These Picture Suck.
-pwnd.

By Dionysus on Dec 31, 2007 | Reply

I would not say these pictures “suck” but they are not incredible. The colours are washed out, which can sometimes be a good effect but not here. The faces of the people look unnatural. Some of the paintings transition badly.

However, Rob Gonsalves’ cityscapes in these portraits are very good, especially the transition between clocks and the city.

By Dino on Dec 31, 2007 | Reply

I would have thought that an Optical Illusion would be anything whereby the eye tricks the brain into seeing something other than what is there. Example: the sand castle on the cliff-top which is either built life-size at the far end of the cliff and diminishes in size as it gets closer to the steps, or is built out into fresh air above the ascending boy’s head - neither of which is the first visual impression. Or the tree reflections in the lake, which turn out to be NOT what we should be looking at, but the negative spaces which form the line of girls leaving the water.

Some of you should broaden your definition of Optical Illusion before condemning the artwork here. That said, I don’t think the execution is brilliant, but I do like the concepts and found the work interesting - thank you.

By bob on Dec 31, 2007 | Reply

I don’t like the snobby responses of these arrogant connoisseurs who seem to think they know what is “good art” and “bad art”

I personally stumbled across this website and with no prejudices or preconceived ideas about art, looked at the paintings and thought they were beautiful. And I haven’t been smoking any crack.

You can study and analyze art and think you “know” more about it than someone else, but really it is about the subjective appreciation of the individual viewer.

By thefish on Jan 2, 2008 | Reply

I doubt that any of you who say these pictures suck could come close to doing what any of the artists did.

By Elise on Jan 2, 2008 | Reply

hey really cool! i enjoyed them!

By Anonymous on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

black power

By Maria on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

Nice pictures. Who’s the artist?

By becky on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

Who ever said these pictures were horrible is a flaming idiot who obviously lives under a rock… look up M.C. Escher, he was one of the most influential illusionary artists that have ever lived. To create these works not only requires a SKILL in the arts but also has to have an imagination far beyond one that can only look at something and recreate it by copying through their media of choice. It almost takes genius level thinking and perception to create these puzzles….. I would LOVE for those who call these crappy to attempt in creating works of this nature. I’m sure your head would explode.

By kangashmoo on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

I wouldn’t hang these on my wall, but I can still appreciate the effort it would have taken to paint them. I like to draw/paint in my spare time and it’s not always easy to get the shading and colours right. So I can say to the artist “good job”

To everybody who is searching for the great magical “illusions” that I have heard so much about… go and buy some acid from Lida.

By Lola on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

I think these are beautiful. The stark transitions are a matter of preference. I think they’re stunning. Who did these?

By jimmy on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

I’m glad I saw these, the transitioning is fine Justin you’re just an ass..

By London on Jan 3, 2008 | Reply

These are pictures by Rob Gonsalves from two children’s books, “Imagine a Night”, and “Imagine a Day”

very nice surreal pictures

By Jack and the beanstalk! on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

these are cool!

VOTE RON PAUL ‘08

By your mom on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

SUPER LOLLERSKATES! YOU PEOPLE EPIC FAILZ!

By sue on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

Very wonderful!! I don’t see how anybody can criticize them.

By Betsy on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

This forum, like many others, is fodder for any emotionally disturbed or immature individual to make rude comments to get attention. By giving Justin and the others on here who wrote such vile comments attention, then they are getting what they want.

Please do yourselves a favor and simply ignore the “whack jobs”. They want any attention - good or bad - because they have such poor self-esteem. Their lack of talent seeps out onto this page and their jealousy abounds. Just pity them in quiet.

NOTE TO THE ARTIST: This art is lovely - plain and simple. You have a very special gift. I, for one, thank you for giving it to the rest of the world - lucky us.

By TaBuT on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

At tarrağı..

By RealTaBuT on Jan 4, 2008 | Reply

yukarıdaki küfür şahsıma ait değildir. iğrenç bir kişiliktir..

By soulrebel on Jan 5, 2008 | Reply

i love these, theres a great dreamlike/cozy quality to them

By shums on Jan 5, 2008 | Reply

great work…..very imaginative…!!
would love to see some more….keep it up..!!

By Fanz on Jan 5, 2008 | Reply

Fascinated with the pictures and the comments. Especially Justin - Now why would you say they suck? Sounds vindictive and has absolutely no substance. The imagination of the artist is awesome. To be able to actually paint one’s perceptions is amazing. Good job! There will always be better or worse paintings - but what’s better or worse, or good or bad? It’s in how you perceive it. I perceive art here. Thanks for putting them up! And boy do I love to stumbleupon!

By steven on Jan 5, 2008 | Reply

Justin, you remind me of a politician. Quick to judge and point a finger at what doesn’t suit your taste. The bottom line is ,you looked at someone’s pictures and based an opinion. From where I sit, you don’t even have any pictures to look at. Cast another stone, Einstein.

By jessi on Jan 5, 2008 | Reply

omg wow omg wow
omg wow wow omg

By St.John on Jan 6, 2008 | Reply

This stuff is BRILLIANT
and i have to say, some really fantastic arguments have been made here…some english needs work though haha, im only teasing, and yes, to lida asking if america is full of assholes…its partly true. there are many

By St.John on Jan 6, 2008 | Reply

oh, and i agree with the last several posts
go stumbleupon, and great work

By Anonymous on Jan 6, 2008 | Reply

Thank you for these pictures. It is wonderful how you have captured the true spirit of play; the melding of reality and imagination that occurs so seamlessly in youth is depicted enticingly. Do you remember what it was like as a child to be that astronomer, skyscraper or bridge builder,or rock star while the mundane occurred unnoticed around you? I do again as well, thank you.

~Karen

By Mani on Jan 6, 2008 | Reply

Wow! Cool pictures! If you want to see the same thing but in reality look for the Teatro Olimpico. A great optical illusion, believe me!

By tony on Jan 7, 2008 | Reply

Anyone who cant at least appreciate these works for the perception ambiguitues they present, as well as the underlying themes the artist incorporates is indeed,an idiot. It is perfectly acceptable to ask of the critic to present a better work in this case, because for one: the critic is beresting the work while voicing a weak criticism at the same time that has no strength of argument. I can say a certain car sucks and then explain in an intelligent manner why ( ie– the performance is lacking, it has horrible gas mileage, its too expensive for what it offers as an automobile), and i dont have to be one who can build a car to do it.

There are recurrances happening in many of the paintings delving deeper into the subject of reality and fantast than just that in itself. Its the dreamworld to be more specific in many of them. Notice the use of beds,sleeping children in nightgowns is repeated.

Another is the active participation in the environment that the sublects of the paintings have. In nearly everyone that has a figure/figures in it, they are interacting with elements integral to the fantasy/reality schism.
The artist is CONSTRUCTING the painting through the figures in them, thus intertwining further the concepts.

There is only one painting that i noticed that DIDNT have a figure in it, and I honestly feel that it doesnt work as well as the ones that do.
Justin, beforew you so bluntly criticize an artists work, back up “these paintings suck ” a little more than the trite few sentences you used. As one earlier post pointed out ” if you can do better, lets see it”—-a picture, after all, IS worth 1000 words.

By Semmy on Jan 7, 2008 | Reply

At first glance I thought they were amazing, just because they were interesting, but then I relooked.

I wouldn’t say they sucked, just because it is a good drawing/painting whatever. But they’re not as creative as some other art I’ve seen. I mean they’re good technically. But kind of faded or uninspired.

Except I liked the castle one. It was bittersweet. It made me sort of sad, but sort of like a memory.

And I think people should be allowed to criticize. Although they should at least say why they think it sucks. And even if they are dumb about - it doesn’t help anything to criticize them.

I wonder why people are so defensive when someone goes against their opinion? Just because someone thinks it’s good when you don’t or vs.

and I liked Lisa. I think she might be crazy, but it’s not her fault, there are worse things.

By arcane on Jan 8, 2008 | Reply

it’s a genre of art called surreal which in my opinion is the most creative
not really optical illusions
but who cares its a very cool collection

By Roto13 on Jan 8, 2008 | Reply

These aren’t very good. The transitions are too abrupt and most of them are about as far from illusions as they can get. You could seriously just draw a black line in most of them and turn them into two separate pictures.

****** Edited by Author

By Clayton on Jan 9, 2008 | Reply

I like the blankets of snow picture. Clever pun there.

By VaJayJayPainin' on Jan 9, 2008 | Reply

These pictures are super kewl! You’ll really like the wiglets building sand castles, especially if you’re a nigger!

By Anonimous on Jan 9, 2008 | Reply

Wow, awsome pictures! Lich em so much..
______________________________
http://www.factscollection.com

By Shannon on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

Is it that the pictures suck, as Justin says? Nope. They’re great pictures, but it’s not an optical illusion as the title of this page tells us. It is, as most say, a transition from fantasy to reality. So, obviously, if you were looking for optical illusions, go somewhere else. These pictures are beautiful and actually quite interesting.

By Dave on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

I liked them. Escher is still the best though.

By chris on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

i would imagine whoever has painted these has experimented with acid

By chris on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

LOL!

By Bryce on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

No the pictures dont suck by any means, like Justin may have stated, However, they do lack something. For the record making the first post in a blog completely negative really sparks some conversation. The pictures remind me of life through a childs eyes, and while they may not be optical illusions, and Escher is still the best, people shouldnt be comparing this artist to Escher, that shits timeless yo.

By CaLm DoWn on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

Well this pic’s have something to spark such heated debate - therefore they Rock!!

By mark on Jan 10, 2008 | Reply

I just stumbled upon this page and could not help but read the comments. I believe that everyone should be entitled to their own criticism, as of the whole Justin, “These pictures suck.” I agree that it isn’t very polite, but criticism is everywhere, both praise and rejection. I give Justin credit however in justifying his critique by giving his peice of mind of why he thinks it could be improved. But again, many readers do not agree with Justin, including myself. I am an artist as well and criticism is a part of displaying art. Reading these posts though is amusing because when one person says his criticism and others disagree, their comments are just as critical. Justin says,”These pictures suck.” Others in rebuttal reply,”Justin is an idiot”, “DIE JUSTIN DIE”, “Justin sucks”, “Justin suffers from penis envy”, etc. Just want to point out how closed-minded some people can be. Everyone gets different impressions with art, and I think it’s great for everyone to give their critique, aside from just saying, “this sucks, that sucks” and say why they do or don’t agree. I could be flamed for this post, but this is my piece of mind, take it or leave it. But I agree with Jon’s post saying, “There is tons of stuff I cant or don’t want to do that doesn’t mean I have to shut up.” I think thats what free speech is supposed to mean. Not bashing other people, but allowing to say what you feel… hate on if you wish…

By Joe on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

It’s nice to see some people understand American Ideals such as free speach.

By David T on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

I am disturbed that this posting has generated so much discussion about taste but noone seems interested in the fact that they appear here seemingly without a creator. Like them or not, how about a credit for the artist?

By NURSINGBULLETIN on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

LOVELY THINK-MAGICKER!

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

big up’s to the artist

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

free speech is not the only an American ideal thou

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

saying one’s mind without regard to others can cause harm, the word is a powerful tool.

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

proper propaganda comes with this, an idealistic American scheme to override one’s emotions

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

but then again, its a generalization to be saying all “American”

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

each one of his/her own, be a chief, we are all capable chief’s.

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

we all have our own perceptions, these posts are just a confirmation of weather we perceive it the same way, yet every each one of us experiences it differently

By iek on Jan 11, 2008 | Reply

i cant explain the way i percieve it, its there the way i see it

By Guppy on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

I really enjoyed these pics. i thought they were interesting. really interesting. anyways, i thought they were cool.

By Justin on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

I’m an idiot

By Lida on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

hullo again, Lida here. I enjoy frredom of voice in manifold ways - your promotion of this is underwhelming, thankyou!
What sort of things d oyou draw? can i see some of these?

By Gaby on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

Fantastic job,those are very imaginative paintings,beautifuly done,high creation…with meanings,this is Art.Obviously,lots of us can draw and paint(no…be honest,lots of us cant),no matter how perfect one can be….creation,imagination is very,very uneasy.To materialise ones inside mind,and actually being able to show it that way(very clean work),…not easy at it seems.Id like to participate to the little “debat” of opinions;critics are constructive in both ways,but if u than criticise in the negative one…without giving any respect to the artist…that is surely and simply ignorance.If u see something u dislike,try to understand it,than build ur opinion,bad or good,its interesting…but with respect, or walk away….Anyway,Im pleased to see real art,even if its not my favourite style,its great work,its worth stopping on it and giving it the attention it deserves.Excuse my english,Im only French(Oups…)!

By Lida on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

hi there”
that’s not right-
i am withbrother’s emloman
there was list top chose from. davids email is not the samew as that
are you want his mail - i can get it no problem. i have to ask him

By WTF! on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

Oh, Holy Euthanasia, please help us! You people are idiots.
Oh, and pictures are interesting, fantasy-reality stuff is great for kids.

By Lida on Jan 12, 2008 | Reply

Oh, WTF… If only you had a brain, you’d be dangerous!

By giorgos on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

hello!!!

i have two brothers!!!

By Guppy on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

Hello, again. i left an earlier comment and have been reading everyone else’s comments… and i have come up w/ 1 question: why are some ppl SO negative. if you don’t like the pics or ppl’s comments then fine. but u don’t have to say that someone’s an idiot or anything.
-gosh

☺☻☺☻☺☻ -smileys!

By Tyron on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

Awesome pictures! They are really truly amazing, I really enjoyed them. Anyone who says otherwise has no appreciation for art. I sent this page to a friend who also really likes them. We both think they are incredible.

By Tyron on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

wow, ok i read some comments, hey lida and abasits, i draw. but these pictures are beyond my skill. maybe in ten years from now… wow. anyway, im better at drawing dragons

By Tyron on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

ok since lida and abasits seem to be the only interesting people here ill talk to them-

hi! Lida what country are you from? and yes, unfortunately, this is what its like in America. people are rude and insulting. but occasionally you find good people. i count myself among those who are nice people.

ok, i read and draw and write, if your interested.
heres my website: www.freewebs.com/lord-tyron
dont look at the pictures they are really old and my worst ones by now, but the writing is ok, take a look

By john on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

but who made them is my question?

By Tyron on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

I think someone said already

By Tyron on Jan 13, 2008 | Reply

hey abs instead of continuing all discussions like this do you have a general forum or something? that would be neat

By Guppy on Jan 14, 2008 | Reply

yes. i thought they were really cool and stretched the imagination.

By Guppy on Jan 14, 2008 | Reply

i try to place a comment at least once a day so that’s why i didn’t answer yesterday.

By Fabio on Jan 14, 2008 | Reply

I don’t think you must do betterin order to criticize something, otherwise nobody could classify or have an opinion (good or bad) about anything. For exemple: People couldn’t criticize Bush otherwise some arse will ask “to do better”. I agree with Justin,those pics are not good

By Glove on Jan 15, 2008 | Reply

these pictures do suck. my four year old has a bigger imagination than the weirdo that drew these.

By Matt on Jan 16, 2008 | Reply

My comment is awaiting moderation.

-Matt

By RockmanNeo on Jan 16, 2008 | Reply

The pictures are nice, creative. But the title “Optical Illusion Pictures” is misleading, leading to some disappointment.

By Very nice on Jan 17, 2008 | Reply

These are very nice. I noticed many comments that they are transitions from fantasy to reality. In reality, they are transitions from one reality to another reality. There’s really very little (if any) fantasy involved.

Thanks for posting these, and boo to all of you nasty, icky, negative nothing-better-to-do posters. I really appreciate the comments that actually contribute to the conversation.

By ary on Jan 17, 2008 | Reply

@justin:

How much does it hurt to simply appreciate someone’s work??

They’re beautiful!

By Duralium on Jan 17, 2008 | Reply

God, why do so many people have to dis Justin? He has a valid point point, and came by quickly to air a little view. Geez, this blog has become an argument zone, degrading from the overall quality of it. C’mon people, never mind what one person thinks. Let people get on with all their stuff, while you get on with yours.
For the record, I really like the pictures shown here.

By fan of Escher on Jan 17, 2008 | Reply

I found Justin’s comment puzzling - why bother commenting just to criticise? - but then it’s a free world (well, in some ways at least) so why not? What is more disturbing is the anger Justin’s comment elicited from some others…

Anyway, surely for an artist having your art described as ‘nice’ is probably more infuriating than being told it ’sucks’. For what it’s worth I think the pictures work well in a number of ways - in some at least there is a real sense of mood and the feeling of looking into a different world - thank you for painting them.

By fan of Escher on Jan 17, 2008 | Reply

PS. In terms of genre, these are clearly inspired as much by Surrealism as by Escher, who doesn’t really fit with a genre. Or does he - you may be better informed than I, which would not be difficult.

By Lou on Jan 18, 2008 | Reply

Too Bad Justin, and Whoever else,doesn’t appreciate thes pics, ’cause they have No depth…Justin and the Others…Not the Pics
I enjoyed viewing them, and I’m NOT Dead

By Martin on Jan 20, 2008 | Reply

Very good and enjoyable pictures. It’s a pleasure to have the chance to find websites like this. Thank you

By you-don't-need-to-know-my-name on Jan 20, 2008 | Reply

you guys really know some good stuff about art! way to go!!!!!!!

By Da Smuttster on Jan 22, 2008 | Reply

The pics were great, however, I found the posts to be most entertaining, a lot of you seemed to have missed several doses of your meds, you especially Lida, I hope you are living in an institutional setting in whatever nice country you may be living in. And yes, this is what America has to offer.

By Lida on Jan 22, 2008 | Reply

oh dear. “da smuttster” seems to have read my befuddled ramblings for reality. still, that’s what misinterpreted national pride will to to a person. unfortunate: d.s. interprets everything in his/her/its own terms, and sees unusual communication can only occur as a deficit of the necessary prescribed neuroleptics. what a happy family this person must hail from to have such a bleak and empty worldview.

By young art student on Jan 22, 2008 | Reply

I’m not terribly fond of these images, but that is more a matter of my own personal taste than anything else. They illustrate an intriguing concept and were executed well enough to hold my attention for some time.

If the information that I gleaned from the discussion is correct these images were made for a childrens book. I would very much like to see the books that these images came out of. The venue in which a piece of art is displayed greatly alters the way that it is viewed and appraised. I dont think enough people realize that.

With that in mind, I think that in stead of worrying about whether these pictures are optical illusions or not, people should see that they all seem to be about the beautiful imaginations of children, and the layered worlds and realities that they see in their play. It’s not about whether you can draw a line between one reality and another in the images (as one commenter stated), but rather that to a child there is no line. in my mind that is where the real beauty of these pieces lie.

(I love my stumble button)

By DON on Jan 23, 2008 | Reply

Those pics really ***** pics

[Edited By Author]

By Dezarae on Jan 24, 2008 | Reply

My sentiments exactly…I love my stumble button too!

By Miles on Jan 28, 2008 | Reply

Thank you for such wonderfully surreal art, some of these pictures (the kids flying off the bed and the story teller taking their audience into the woods) brought me back to times when my mind was flexible enough to truly believe in my imagination. That is the big difference (in my experience) between being a child and being an adult, as an adult i find myself conscious of my imaginations as a child my consciousness was my imagination. Thank you reminding me.

By Yolanda Crisostomo on Feb 1, 2008 | Reply

I Love these pictures. It’s actually the first time in years that I’ve bothered to look at any kind of image like this.

This reminds me of the dream world. As soon as I saw these pictures my head cleared and I felt at peace.

We live in a world where some say without war, and disagreements and all this would be a boring place to live. Well without war and disagreements maybe we could use our energy doing all kinds of fun things like on these pictures.

By Yolanda Crisostomo on Feb 1, 2008 | Reply

And I also stumbled you…thanks.

By Yolanda Crisostomo on Feb 1, 2008 | Reply

Sorry to keep commenting but I wanted to let you know that I searched for children’s books by Robert Gonsalves and found it. I intend to order quite a few of them…thanks again.

By robin on Feb 1, 2008 | Reply

i visited this page around the end of december and then wrote about it on my stumble page..(btw,,i think these pictures are fabulous)..i came back today to visit again..and i’m still bothered about justin’s remark. dude, are you just frustrated about your own artwork or do you actually produce superior work? maybe just having a bad day. why do i care? i don’t even know. i’m just like that i guess..but i hope things are better with you today.

By Anonymous on Feb 2, 2008 | Reply

I stumbled upon it, via stumble upon it! I like it!

By Anonymous on Feb 3, 2008 | Reply

what the fuck are you on about?

By Tyron on Feb 3, 2008 | Reply

okay hi again and while justin has no right to display the attitude he did in such a rude manner, many of the reactions to his comment were far more innapropriate. okay anyway now that i have my internet back i will try to post more often

By Tyron on Feb 3, 2008 | Reply

wow by the way Lida the more i read your posts the more i come to like your personality. what country are you from? how did you learn English so well?

By apesizzle on Feb 15, 2008 | Reply

looooved it!!!!

By Jupiter on Feb 18, 2008 | Reply

the mind is a flexible perception instrument…, reality,dreams, fantasy, psychedelic trips, sensory deprivation…..

these pictures, although for a childrens book, are referencing something far deeper than just illusions…..nice work…..funny comments too….gotta love the Internet…. haha
Jupe

By linda on Feb 19, 2008 | Reply

Why ppl angry how much so? Dont understand, american like this?

By linda on Feb 19, 2008 | Reply

I don’t know how a talk, crazy bitch who?

By linda on Feb 19, 2008 | Reply

LOL Lida ur a bit too weird for ‘americans’ stop posting if u dont want to be ridiculed at lollll…

By Robert on Feb 19, 2008 | Reply

I have to agree with linda on this one…Lida, what has Justin not liking the pictures have anything to do with him not wanting to see you well? He’s not angry at you… he just didnt like the pictures….lmao

By lol on Feb 25, 2008 | Reply

interesting…I stumbled on this post and read most of the comments. Isn’t it curious how the ones who bash the subject and/or other people who commented often use poor grammar, language, etc? The open-minded who can see where the pictures could (naturally) be improved, yet see the good in them and are polite to others seem more intelligent and better educated.
But this seems to be the plague of all comments..
I appreciate the concept of these pictures and the effort it took to produce them. As an amateur artist, I know how difficult it can be to produce on canvas what you see in your imagination. Without a wide variety of art to choose from, how can we form our ideas of “good art” and “bad art”?! Thanks, abasits, for posting these!

By an artist on Mar 3, 2008 | Reply

I think they are pretty good & I enjoyed looking at them. They have a magickal element of childhood fantasy in them, makes sense that the original artist does children’s books.

By Hmmm on Mar 13, 2008 | Reply

hmmmm…
To Justin - post 25 December 2007:
Horrible is a bit of a rough (and rude) thing to say.
I think they look good - and why cant YOU appreciate them for what they are…and not for what you would do yourself (if you have the ability to draw/paint as well)!
If everyone filled it in with the magical ‘grey’ - we’d all be even more sheep like & effing boring too.
Maybe you should learn the power of appreciation rather than run around dissing other ppl.

By AfricaMike on Mar 16, 2008 | Reply

I think they’re great. You can keep looking at them and see stuff you didn’t see before.

By poolio on Mar 16, 2008 | Reply

These pics aren’t that great. plus, they are not “optical illusion pictures” they are abstract or quasi-surreal art
pictures…

By mike on Mar 17, 2008 | Reply

This is so fantastic. I’m really really proud of it whoever did this. This kind of imagination or masterpiece is so deep. I like it. Hope soon, i could make my masterpiece too like urs.

By Tommi on Mar 27, 2008 | Reply

I really like these pictures. They are not optical illusions, I agree, but each one is extremely fascinating in itself. I would like to see more of these.

By Lima on Mar 31, 2008 | Reply

Found through Stumble Upon and enjoyed the pictures. They’re the kind of things i’d have loved as a child; breaking the boundaries between reality and fantasy is so magical at a young age.

By pingu on Apr 11, 2008 | Reply

but will it blend?

By mia on May 5, 2008 | Reply

These posts are more interesting than the pics (which are all right). Lida,keep up the free speech. I’m an American and I like your questions.

And I wonder if Justin has bothered to look at this since he wrote “you suck” ?
I probably won’t.

Have good lives, y’all!

By Fab on May 14, 2008 | Reply

How fucking dare anyone out there make fun of Justin after all she he been through!
Leave Justin alooooone!
Nice paintings tho.

By Chelsea on May 23, 2008 | Reply

These pictures are far out. Trippy. Me likes.

By jitendra on May 26, 2008 | Reply

Hello!!

Nice piece of work.
It looks just great.
Thanks

Jitendra

By Kaitlyn b on May 26, 2008 | Reply

…

By Gwen on Jun 2, 2008 | Reply

These are wonderful imaginative pictures, and just the picture I was looking for to decorate my children’s room! Colorful and thought provoking, I am captivated by the reality/fantasy!

By Anonymous on Jun 3, 2008 | Reply

I think these are awesome! Amazing actually! Don’t listen to the left brain analytical artsy people ok?

By Liz on Jun 5, 2008 | Reply

I really like them. I’d like some posters with some of them.

By becca clare on Jun 16, 2008 | Reply

they were fun pics

By nick on Jul 15, 2008 | Reply

i agree that justin is a fucking loser, no1 cares whether the transition is rough or watever, wat ar u an art expert? if u r then ur probably out of a job cuz noone needs ur dumb critizism, i wanna see u find something that beats these pictures

btw the pictures r awesome, beats watching funny pictures all the time

By casandra on Jul 25, 2008 | Reply

I loved these optical illusions great job, if you can please put more up. bye

By Mr Awsome on Jul 28, 2008 | Reply

I like banana pancakes

By Tyler on Aug 14, 2008 | Reply

Lol, lots of venting going on here. Anywho, these are some great pictures. Kudos to the imagination behind them.

By Tyler on Aug 14, 2008 | Reply

Yes!!!!!!!!!!

By Tj on Aug 14, 2008 | Reply

Amazing! Thanks for posting these.

By מיכאל on Aug 25, 2008 | Reply

אחי זה אחד הקטלניים i don’t speaking english

By מיכאל on Aug 25, 2008 | Reply

זה אחד הקטלניים