Optical illusions, art and the brain

Mike Sheehan


Regions:
Surrey, Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, London
Notice Period:
Regular (more than one month's notice)
Type:
Ex-professional
Fee:
Free
Category:
Science
Updated:
21st May 2025

Do you remember the baffling internet sensation about a dress that some people said was gold but others were convinced it was blue? Why is it that we see faces around us every day, but if you try to draw one, most people will get it completely wrong? These experiences hint at a fascinating secret: your brain is constantly working in ways your conscious mind doesn't always expect.

This captivating talk reveals the amazing world of optical illusions, both old and new. You'll discover how these visual puzzles reveal the clever ways our brains have evolved to make sense of our surroundings for survival. See how legendary artists, sometimes without even realizing it, have woven these illusions into their masterpieces. Prepare to be astonished by:

• Images that tell different stories to adults and children! • Black-and-white pictures that trick your eyes into seeing vibrant colour! • Stationary designs that seem to spring to life and move! • Moving objects that mysteriously vanish before your very eyes!

Join us for an interactive experience that will not only educate and amuse but will also convincingly show you why you shouldn't always believe what you see. Get ready to explore the hidden workings of your mind and change the way you look at the world!

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About Mike Sheehan

Ever wondered what sparks artistic genius, or how understanding your own brain could boost your creativity? Mike Sheehan has spent his life exploring these fascinating questions from two unique perspectives. While he delved into the complexities of the human brain – earning a doctorate in Neuroscience in Charing Cross Hospital in London and contributing to the development of new medicines in pharmaceutical R&D – Mike also nurtured a lifelong passion for the arts.

When he wasn't immersed in science, Mike was making music, playing the oboe in orchestras and the piano and organ for churches and community groups, and chasing every opportunity to visit art exhibitions. This rich dual background has given him a unique insight into the exciting crossroads where art and science meet. Mike loves to share how artists' incredible work often springs from the very way our brains are wired, and how a little insight into how we think can help anyone see art in a new light and even enhance their own creative flair.

Forget dry lectures; Mike brings his topics to life with the energy of an artist and the clarity of a scientist, often with a touch of humour honed from his experiences in amateur dramatics and comedy writing. He's adept at making complex subjects not just understandable, but truly exciting and relevant to everyone.


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