Nelson-Atkins presents ‘Art of Illusion: Photography and Perceptual Play’

Abelardo Morell, American (b. Cuba, 1948). ‘Camera Obscura Image of Manhattan View Looking South in Large Room,’ 1996. Gelatin silver print, 18 by 22 ½ inches. Gift of Hallmark Cards, Inc., 2005.27.4060.
Abelardo Morell, American (b. Cuba, 1948). ‘Camera Obscura Image of Manhattan View Looking South in Large Room,’ 1996. Gelatin silver print, 18 by 22 ½ inches. Gift of Hallmark Cards, Inc., 2005.27.4060.
Abelardo Morell, American (b. Cuba, 1948). ‘Camera Obscura Image of Manhattan View Looking South in Large Room,’ 1996. Gelatin silver print, 18 by 22 ½ inches. Gift of Hallmark Cards, Inc., 2005.27.4060.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Does photography accurately reflect the things we see? Or does it merely present illusions? Those are the central questions explored in an exhibition at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City. Art of Illusion: Photography and Perceptual Play, curated by April Watson, is comprised of more than 50 photographs from the museum’s permanent collection, many of them recent acquisitions and never before on view. The exhibition opened October 22 and continues through April 25, 2022.

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