Trompe l’oeil (literally “to deceive the eye”) is an ancient technique whereby a painter creates a visual illusion via a trick of perspective. French street artist Patrick Commecy is a modern master of this art form, working with his team of artists at A-Fresco to create huge, hyper-realistic murals on otherwise drab building facades.
Images: Patrick Commecy/A-Fresco
Per S.A. Rogers of Web Urbanist:
The most dramatic example is a Montpelier building, the back of which is within view of a nearby park. Worn and neglected, the structure was a bit of an eyesore as-is. Commecy’s team A-Fresco transformed it with a full faux facade including a tiled roof, windows with balconies and a small tower. The figures seen in the outdoor spaces are famous and influential Montpelier residents throughout history.
Those figures include Antoine Jérôme Balard, a 19th century chemist who discovered bromine. Check it out:
For even more amazing trompe l’oeil murals, check out the A-Fresco website (in French).