How to Paint Trompe-L'Oeil

Trompe-l'oeil--"trick the eye"--is an art genre that extends back to the Greeks. Its original function was as an architectural tool, a means of using a mural to make a simple flat surface into something more expansive. It has evolved into one of the most engaging kinds of art used by surrealists, sidewalk artists, and wallpaper designers.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Begin working on your sketching and painting skills at a young age. Trompe-l'oeil requires a great degree of technical drafting skill. In particular, study perspective and the art of three-dimensional renderings.

2. When you are ready to attack the genre, familiarize yourself with the history of trompe-l'oeil. Study the works of contemporary artists.

3. Continue to hone your skills. Attend one of the art academies that specifically feature trompe-l'oeil.

4. Add murals to your paintings. Murals are a very commercial form of trompe-l'oeil, and until you develop a reputation as a gallery artist, they can be a way of keeping the lights on.

5. Study the works of the some the more successful sidewalk artists. Their works have become Internet events and helped quickly create a widespread reputation.

6. Explore the possibility of creating patterns for trompe-l'oeil wallpaper. It has become a popular decorating device.

7. Visit the National Gallery of Art and tour its works of trompe-l'oeil. Decide where your masterpiece will best fit.

Resources

• A basic discussion of three-dimensional sketching and perspective.
• Website that offers examples of trompe-l'oeil and discusses its history.
• Website of a trompe-l'oeil Academy.
• Examples of sidewalk trompe-l'oeil.
• Article about trompe-l'oeil wallpaper.