Abstract Illusionism

Abstract Illusionism

Abstract illusionism is commonly associated with the decorative designs found in Baroque art, particularly in building ornamentation.

The works were mainly influenced by expressionistic and hard-edge abstract painting styles. They also incorporated elements like perspective, artificial lighting, and fake cast shadows to create the impression of 3D space on a flat surface. Abstract illusionism was distinct from traditional Trompe-l'œil (fool the eye) art because it made the picture space appear to come out of or extend away from the canvas, rather than receding into it as in traditional painting.


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Parra's studio, with Parra at the centre, his back to the camera as he works on the large painting takes centre stage, showing a faceless blue woman in a striped dress, painted in red, purple, blue and teal. The studio is full of brightly coloured paints, with a large window on the right and a patterned rug across the floor under the painting.