Horses and Birds 1949

M.C. Escher made this image, Horses and Birds, as a woodcut in black and white. Look at how the white horses become black birds with a simple shift in perception. So cool, right? I can imagine Escher in his studio, carefully carving away at the wood block, thinking about infinity and metamorphosis. It makes me think about how forms can shift and change depending on how you look at them, like a visual game of hide-and-seek. The stark contrast of black and white emphasizes the graphic quality of the print, making each shape pop. I love the rhythm he creates, as horses transform into birds and back again! It reminds me of the op art movement and how artists like Bridget Riley played with perception and visual illusions. Escher's exploration of infinity and pattern inspired countless artists and designers and continues to fascinate audiences today.