At first glance it appears to be just a normal photograph hung on the wall but when someone approaches and comes nearer the image gradually fades and finally disappears into the mirrored surface. One is left looking into ones own reflection, but as soon as the viewer leaves the image slowly returns again.

 This project began while working on a series of night photography to capture reflected scenery. While taking pictures, I noticed how I would occasionally catch a glimpse of myself reflected in a window and then suddenly disappear from sight when the lights came on inside. I could then photograph the various interior scenes just until the lights went off and I again appeared in the scene.

 I was fascinated by this and began studying photography theory where I learned about Claude glass or “Black mirror” effect. Trying to utilize this phenomenon and adapt it into an object, I came upon the idea of redesigning a mirror to incorporate this trompe l’œil effect.

Text by Douglas Legg