Make Your Own Thaumatrope

At the workshop, we will discover the thaumatrope, a simple yet charming optical toy from the 19th century that works based on persistence of vision. When the disc spins quickly, two different images on its sides merge into one – a bird appears in a cage, a heart lands in a hand, or a smile appears on a face.

We will learn how this optical illusion works and use a laser cutter to create our own thaumatrope. Then, we will draw imaginative motifs on each side that will come to life when spun. The workshop combines art, science, and play, taking us back to a time when people were only beginning to discover moving images.

At the end, each participant will take home their own magical optical toy that brings two images to life as one with a simple spin.

The workshop is suitable for children aged 9 and above.

The workshop is part of the Educational Programme of the Društvo Slon Association project, co-financed by the Slovenian Film Centre.