Champions of Illusion

Scientists Susana Martínez-Conde and Stephen Macknik talk about the electrifying mix of magic and science in their book “Champions of Illusion.”

Professors Martinez-Conde and Macknik present a smorgasbord of mystifying images, many selected from their Best Illusion of the Year Contest. Whether it’s false motion, tricks of perspective, or shifting colors, Champions of Illusion is packed with adventures in visual perception. If you have ever found yourself face-to-face with an utterly bewildering illusion, you know the powerful effect such images have on the mind. The question we often ask ourselves is, How is that possible? Martinez-Conde and Macknik, who study the intersection of neuroscience, illusions, and stage magic, explain just why we think we see the things we see.

The event is held as part of the lecture series entitled The Future is now presented by Instituto Cervantes New York. In this series, various professionals of the scientific and technological field discuss the topics of maximum technical relevance and the greatest advances that are taking place in the field of science and technology and how these will affect our lives in the immediate future.

The presentation will be held in English and followed by a book signing.