Pepper’s Ghost Illusion

Step into the fascinating world of optical illusions with this hands-on workshop, where we’ll create a hologram using the Pepper’s Ghost Illusion—a classic technique that has been used for over 150 years to produce the appearance of ghostly, floating images in space. Named after British scientist John Henry Pepper, who popularized the illusion in 1862, this captivating visual trick has long been featured in theater, theme parks, and special effects.

In this interactive session, we’ll explore the historical and theatrical origins of the Pepper’s Ghost Illusion, the science of light reflection behind it, and the optimal setup needed to make it work. We’ll also discuss its modern-day applications. Guided by expert instruction, participants will construct their own working model using simple, everyday materials—no prior experience with optics or illusion-making required.

This workshop is open to everyone ages 12 and up. Whether you're a student, hobbyist, educator, theater enthusiast, or DIY lover, all curious minds are welcome. Bring your creativity (and your smartphone) and leave with a sense of wonder—and your very own Pepper’s Ghost projection enclosure to keep the illusion alive at home.

The workshop will be conducted in English.

About the mentor:

Ziggy O’Reilly is an artist and human–robot interaction researcher with a PhD in Human–Robot Interaction and an MSc in Biological Art. She works across moving image, generative art, and robotics, operating at the intersection of art and science. Her work has been exhibited internationally and has been published in leading art, science, and technology journals, including Leonardo.

During the Makers in Residency at Center Rog, Ljubljana, Ziggy is developing a prototype for a larger work titled Holo-Jelly: An Interactive Jellyfish Hologram. During the residency, she will source materials and design the housing container for the holographic jellyfish projection. The larger project—developed in collaboration with Cody Cameron-Brown—combines interactive holography and animation to elicit empathy towards a trapped jellyfish character, inviting participants to set it free.

Photo: Cody Cameron-Brown

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Participants are asked to gather 15 minutes before the scheduled start time in the entrance hall of Center Rog. Please store your personal belongings in the lockers, which will be shown to you by the mentor. Please do not be late for the program, as late arrivals disrupt the workflow. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee entry to the lab in case of late arrival.

In case of cancellation, you will be notified two days before the scheduled start.

If you are unable to attend the program, the participation fee is non-refundable, and rescheduling is not possible. You may transfer your participation to another person; please inform us at least 24 hours before the program begins by email: fablab@center-rog.si

We look forward to your company and creative collaboration.