Trompe l'oeil workshop | Accademia del Giglio

The technique of hyperrealism and optical art

During this course students will be introduced to a brief study and analysis of the most celebrated artworks of hyperrealism and optical art, by showing them the mastery and expertise in these techniques of some famous painters. Afterwards each student will put into practice what he/she has learnt by creating his/her own trompe l’oeil work.

Consequently, the students’ task will be challenging: they will have to take into account the natural size of the objects, make use of the perspective theories, consider the position of the observer towards the fictitious space, as well as create a tridimensional effect through the use of lights and shades.

This workshop is available every Monday all year round

Some history

This conspicuous technique originates in the 15th century from the encounter of the Italian perspective with the Flemish realistic paintings. As the meaning of the French expression clearly tells (“trompe-l’oeil”), its explicit aim is to “deceive the eye” of the observer.

The first unreal objects were actually painted on a wall and represented every-day-life things on a fictitious table or shelf. The trompe-l’oeil technique became more refined and elaborate later in the Baroque period, during which hunting trophies, perching birds, precious cabinets, game tables and several other sophisticated artistic objects were often painted for aristocratic families and rich merchants.

All required materials and tools are fully included in the tuition fee. You don’t need to bring or purchase anything.