Trompe l’œil (French for “deceive the eye”) is an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the optical illusion that painted 3D objects exist in real space.

Leah Brunner: “I was asked by Venue Manager Bego to do a painting on a door at Queens Park Tennis Club. I am a decorative artist, and Bego had seen some of my work I was doing and posting on my instagram, and she knew there was a blank space on the outside of the QPTC clubhouse that could be a good fit.

The original idea was to create a false window, as if you are looking off into some distant world. But I couldn’t quite make that work, and we decided instead to go for a classic Trompe l’œil effect, creating a false door on to the existing fire escape panel. I studied Trompe l’Oeil technique last year in Brussels, Belgium, and I was keen to test out what I had learnt.

“It takes some planning in order to get that three dimensional perspective that ‘tricks’ your eye into thinking it is real. First stage was the visual plan, which was approved by the club. Then I started with the measurements of the mouldings which I drew with a pencil. Getting the door mouldings accurate with the correct measurements and perfect straight lines, with necessary depth, took the longest time. I used a laser spirit level to keep it accurate. Then I used oils to paint over the lines and soften them in the correct direction to get that trompe l’oeil effect. I then drew out and painted the doorknob and then eventually the bag. The lettering QUEENS PARK TENNIS CLUB, was drawn on tracing paper at home, which I then transferred it on to the door. Then, finally, I put three coats of varnish to protect the painting. It’s not indestructible though, so please don’t touch! I am pleased with the final version, and the feedback from members and visitors has been very positive and encouraging. I’d love to do some more!”

If you would like to know more, contact Leah Brunner, Leahbrunner10 [at] gmail.com

Follow leah_artpage on Instagram for more work samples.