Response to 'Masters of Illusion'

Burke's 'Masters of Illusion'

                This video, although not always relevant, had some useful information that could be applied to this photo collage project. ‘Masters of Illusion’ focused upon the Renaissance master artists and their techniques concerned with creating the illusion of a 3-D space on a 2-D surface.

 Perspective was the principle topic in the video. Burke explains the mechanics of parallel lines converging at vanishing points in one point perspective. He also elaborates on multiple point perspective. Perspective is a useful tool that can be applied to photography to emphasize certain elements in the picture. Significant depth can also be achieved when perspective is used effective.

Burke also mentions the Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo was well known for his tendency to “reexamine everything.” This reexamination is the same mentality that photographers should practice when contemplating their subject and their approach.

Masters of Illusions also mentions point of view as a useful element that can be applied to photography. Burke mentions the artist Mantegna’s practice of placing the viewer in unexpected vantage points such as the street level and the feet of the deceased Christ. These vantage points create very dramatic effects. Similar effects can be applied to photographs.

Tweaking these traditional artistic practices a photographer can apply them to their craft and produce new and interesting effects.