Description:

"Hidden Image" posters and artwork have become common in the past few years. When some people stare at these posters, 3-dimensional figures appear within the pattern.

There are several methods to make hidden image posters "work"

Purpose:

Hidden Image posters offer a fun way to explore how the brain interprets visual information.

There are several methods to make hidden image posters "work". One method involves identifying two points of the picture which are about 1 inch apart and look almost identical. By crossing their eyes just enough to superimpose one point on top of the other, the viewers can make the 3D image appear.

Here's what is happening. When the two points are superimposed on top of one another, the brain receives slightly different signals from each eye. These signals are similar to the signals the brain receives when the viewer is looking at a 3D object. Since the brain is accustomed to interpreting this type of signal from the eyes as 3D objects, 3D "hidden images" are seen.

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