The Artist Dream A Magical Illusion That Brings Art to Life. “The Artist’s Dream” is an enchanting illusion that captivates audiences by making a painted canvas appear to come to life. Originally popular in England, this magic trick combines clever mechanics, misdirection, and the classic trope of the “living painting” to create a mesmerizing performance. Here’s how this illusion works, and a step-by-step guide to performing it.
The Artist Dream A Magical Illusion That Brings Art to Life
Overview
In this illusion, an artist reveals a framed painting of a lady, seemingly alone on stage with no visible mechanisms or assistants. As the artist pretends to doze off, the lady in the painting mysteriously steps out of the frame, exchanges words with the artist, then returns to the painting, leaving the artist and audience to question if she ever truly appeared.
Essential Props and Equipment
To perform “The Artist’s Dream,” you will need the following items:
- Frame with Curtain: A large, ornate frame with a front curtain for concealing and revealing the painting.
- Canvas with Painted Portrait: The painting of the lady, set on a sturdy canvas frame, also known as the stretcher.
- Platform with Trap Door: A stage platform with a concealed trap door to allow the lady to enter and exit the frame area undetected.
- Rolling Frame Mechanism: The frame should be on rollers to allow it to be turned around for the audience.
- Canvas Roller Mechanism: The canvas should be able to roll up into the top of the frame, similar to a retractable window blind.
- Pulley and Wire System: Wires attached to the stretcher to assist in lifting it, controlled by an assistant.
Setting Up the Illusion
- Prepare the Frame and Curtain: The frame should be mounted on rollers so that it can easily turn around, showcasing that nothing is hidden behind or around it.
- Attach the Pulley System: Connect the wires to the top corners of the canvas frame. These wires will lead up through a pulley system in the stage flies (rigging area above the stage), then down to an assistant who can control the tension.
- Canvas Roller Mechanism: The canvas should be mounted on a hollow top bar containing a roller. This roller allows the canvas to roll up, revealing the lady behind it.
- Trap Door on Platform: Position the platform with a trap door beneath the frame. The lady will use this trap to enter and exit undetected.
Performing The Artist’s Dream Illusion
Step 1: Introducing the Painting
- Begin by pulling aside the curtain to reveal the painting of the lady.
- Remove the canvas from the frame, turning it around to show both sides and confirming that nothing is concealed.
- Replace the canvas back into the frame, ensuring it stands firmly on the floor.
Step 2: Setting Up the Dream Sequence
- After positioning the canvas, lower the curtain in front of the frame.
- Sit in a chair nearby, acting as if you’re drifting into a dream. This moment builds anticipation and heightens the illusion.
Step 3: Bringing the Painting to Life
- While you “sleep,” the lady enters through the trap door behind the frame, using the handles on the back of the canvas stretcher to position herself.
- She places her feet on a ledge on the stretcher, allowing her to remain balanced as the assistant pulls the wires, raising her into the frame.
Step 4: The Lady Steps Out of the Frame
- The lady unrolls the canvas using the roller mechanism, concealing it within the top frame bar, and steps out from behind the curtain, appearing to the audience as though she’s emerged from the painting.
Step 5: Interaction and Re-entry
- Engage in a brief exchange with the lady, making it appear as though she’s stepped directly out of your dream.
- She then returns to the frame, reattaches the canvas to the frame, and secures it back in place using the hook.
Step 6: The Grand Reveal
- Once the lady has returned to her hidden position and the canvas is securely reattached, open the curtain and reveal the painting once more.
- The audience is left marveling at the transformation, as the lady has seemingly vanished back into the canvas.
Tips for a Smooth Performance
- Practice Timing: The timing of each step is crucial for maintaining the illusion. Rehearse with the assistant and the lady to ensure smooth transitions.
- Effective Misdirection: Use your acting and interactions with the audience to keep their focus on you during critical moments, diverting attention from any setup movements.
- Audience Engagement: Lean into the “dream” theme, narrating your imagined vision of the lady coming to life, which enhances the effect.
Conclusion: Creating an Enchanting Performance
“The Artist’s Dream” is a magical illusion that beautifully blends art and performance. With careful preparation and dramatic flair, this trick can become a memorable and mesmerizing part of your repertoire, captivating audiences and inviting them into a world where art truly comes to life.
