Trompe L'Oeil Today offers a fascinating overview of the range of styles and techniques of illusionistic painting for private residences and public spaces, restaurants and other commercial interiors, and even indoor swimming pools. It covers unusual techniques, such as anamorphism, and bold geometric patterns, as well as more traditional Trompe L'oeil subjects, including Pompeian-style wall paintings, classical arches and colonnades, landscapes, statues and reliefs, and elaborate ceiling treatments. The book defines the categories of illusionistic painting: material imitation, or faux finishes, ranging from marble and wood finishes to snake and crocodile skin; grisaille, including imaginary moldings, reliefs, and statuary; small-format trompe l'oeils, such as those painted in niches and on doors; and large panoramic murals. Experienced professionals, the authors address practical questions and offer helpful tips and tricks for choosing the right materials, technique, and style. They examine the use of perspective and the psychology of visual perception, presenting a visually beguiling array of painting possibilities.

Trompe L'Oeil Today is an essential reference for artists and designers working in trompe l'oeil and in search of suggestions or inspiration, interior architects and decorators looking for an outline of what can be done to create new and different ambiances, and clients who plan to commission a work. Over 150 four-color photographs illustrate the architectural and aesthetic impact of professional illusionistic work. Trompe L'Oeil Today is an invaluable survey of an impressive, popular art form.

About the Author
Martin Benad (with Ursula E. Benad) run the studio Atelier Benad for the creative use of color and wall decoration in Munich. They develop individual designs for private homes and businesses and offer regular seminars on color planning, wall decorating, and illusionary painting. Their previous books include Trompe L'Oeil Today and, in this series, Trompe L'Oeil Sky and Sea and Trompe L'Oeil Grisaille: Architecture & Drapery. Ursula E. Benad (with Martin Benad) run the studio Atelier Benad for the creative use of color and wall decoration in Munich. They develop individual designs for private homes and businesses and offer regular seminars on color planning, wall decorating, and illusionary painting. Their previous books include Trompe L'Oeil Today and, in this series, Trompe L'Oeil Sky and Sea and Trompe L'Oeil Grisaille: Architecture & Drapery.

Reviews
"An inspirational resource for any readers wanting to learn more about this art form. The book in part celebrates trompe l'oeil's colourful past, but adapts the traditional style, with inspiration for the future. Learn how decorating walls can be more interesting than watching paint dry."



Book Information
ISBN 9780393731309
Author Martin Benad
Format Hardback
Page Count 128
Imprint WW Norton & Co
Publisher WW Norton & Co
Weight(grams) 891g
Dimensions(mm) 305mm * 218mm * 18mm