Bridget Riley

Born April 25, 1931 -

OP ARTOptical IllusionsBridget Riley is one of England’s best known artists. Most of her early work was in black and white. Her first exhibit was in 1962 and she became a huge success.

“Current” 1964

Here the effect is of falling water moving in waves. This is created by the lines moving closer and farther away from each other on the canvas.

Move your head as you look at the painting and see it ripple and change.

“Fall” 1963

“When the viewer looks at Optical Art the impression is given of movement, hidden images, flashing and vibration, patterns, or alternatively, of swelling or warping.”

Her work is known for its intensity and it's often disorientating effect. The term 'Riley sensation' was coined to describe this “dizzy” effect of looking at Op Art paintings.

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Her work is often on a very large scale, taking up entire walls.