David K. Israel
16 Awesome Trompe-L’œil Chalk Drawings
by David K. Israel - November 21, 2011 - 3:24 PM

Julian Beever is an English artist who specializes in creating trompe-l’œil chalk drawings. He uses a projection technique called anamorphosis to create the illusion of three dimensions when viewed from the correct angle. It’s often possible to position a person within the image as if they were interacting with the scene. Trompe l’oeil means ‘trick of the eye’ in French. The effect is so convincing, people will swerve to avoid potholes he’s drawn in the pavement! But just how does he do it? In his own words: “The secret is to set up a camera on a tripod and keep it in one spot and check every mark you make.  It’s really just playing with perspective to make it appear different to what it really is.” Keep in mind, what you’re about to see is all done on flat surfaces! As always, let us know your favorite in the comments below. I think mine is the elaborate under-street cross-section showing the plumbing, etc.

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Comments (9)

  1. I really like the one of himself doing one of these drawings. That last one, though, with the baby? Just CREEPY.

    posted by Tolonda on 11-21-2011 at 4:14 pm

  2. So amazing! My favorite is the ‘dungeon’ one.

    posted by Pink Coat on 11-21-2011 at 4:15 pm

  3. We had a festival here in Houston this past weekend called Via Colori Street Art Festival that is all about sidewalk chalk art. I didn’t get to go this year but saw some of the pictures online – amazing!

    posted by krissie_d on 11-21-2011 at 4:35 pm

  4. I wish I could see one his pictures in real life! My favorites are the ones where you feel like you could fall in. They are all amazing, though!

    posted by Bethany on 11-21-2011 at 7:13 pm

  5. I love these, especially where there is a lot of things to interact with.

    posted by Sharyn on 11-21-2011 at 11:57 pm

  6. The dungeon is great, but the water hose is astounding! Getting the water right with chalk is truly amazing.

    posted by Laurel on 11-22-2011 at 11:09 am

  7. I would really like to see some of his drawings at the “wrong” angle, so you can appreciate the perspective.

    posted by Kathy on 11-22-2011 at 1:03 pm

  8. I love this guys work… amazing

    posted by Cattye on 11-22-2011 at 1:04 pm

  9. cool

    posted by killer on 11-22-2011 at 2:42 pm

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