Augmenting Reality: On the Shared History of Perceptual Illusion and Video Projection Mapping

Abstract

Perceptual illusions based on the spatial correspondence between objects and displayed images have been pursued by artists and scientists since the 15th century, mastering optics to create crucial techniques such as the linear perspective and devices such as the magic lantern. Contemporary video projection mapping inherits and further extends this drive to produce perceptual illusions in space by incorporating the required real-time capabilities for dynamically superposing the imaginary onto physical objects under fluid real world conditions. A critical milestone has been reached in the creation of the technical possibilities for all encompassing, untethered synthetic reality experiences available to the plain senses, where every surface may act as a screen and the relation to everyday objects is open to perceptual alterations.