Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Breaking the Boundaries

You can tell from the smile on this art lover's face that she isn't really in any danger from the pouncing lion that appears within striking distance of her.

And the fact that the lion is leaping from a red wardrobe, inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia, tells you something fantastical is occurring in the art world.


As 'realistic' as it may look, this incredible painting is simply part of a new exhibition of four dimensional art in North East China.


The collection of paintings, on display at a contemporary art exhibition in the Jilin province, uses techniques similar to the 'stand-up' advertising hoardings that are sometimes painted on the edges of sports pitches.


With cunning use of shadow they trick the eye into believing that the images are leaping off the canvas, that arrows are firing towards the viewers gaze from the bows of cherubs, or that Pinocchio's nose is protruding wildly from the frame.


The pieces are a huge hit with spectators who have already shown a talent for interacting with the works to become part of the art themselves.


These photographs show how creative fans have snapped themselves holding the end of Van Gogh's paintbrush, shouldering the train of a portrait's flowing dress and, in one clever sideways snap, skydiving from the safety of of the gallery floor.

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