J.M.W. Turner
One of the best examples of Turner’s studies into the visual perception of motion is this painting, ‘Rain, Steam and Speed’ (Fig 1, right), completed by around 1844.
It is not widely recognised that Turner (1775 - 1851) was one of the founding fathers of experimental psychology*. However, the subject matter of his paintings was largely dictated due to his interest in exploring the links between visual psychophysics and neurophysiology.
He was particularly fascinated by the illusion of motion after-effect. He studied this phenomenon extensively, demonstrating how visual illusions can provide valuable insights into brain strategy and theories of perception. One series of experiments involved staring hard out of the window of fast-moving trains, rapidly disembarking, and immediately looking back to observe the scene.
Turner recorded his observations in graphical format. The continued sensation of movement, when in reality the surroundings were static, was represented by the use of blurred colours and hazy outlines. The 'Rain, Steam and Speed' image was produced as a record of using this experimental approach.
Some have hypothesised that the colours and haziness in Turner’s work are simply a consequence of volcanic dust in the stratosphere following the eruption of Mount Tambora in April 1815. Neuroscientists, however, recognise that here was a fellow investigator carrying out pioneering work in experimental psychology.
It is likely that the lower velocity of sea travel, compared to his studies carried out on the railways, was responsible for failing to produce a marked effect; although movement is implied by the dramatic waves and plunging ships, the absence of blurred outlines indicate that after-effect was not observed in these conditions.
The greater delay between fixating on the moving scene and reaching solid ground would have also diminished the effect. Even when recorded at the scene, as here at Calais Pier, results were not entirely satisfactory. The work on trains remains the most productive time in his career.
Today's psychologists have the considerable advantage of being able to simulate moving scenery. A well-known example is 'The Waterfall Illusion'. Fixate on the moving water for 30s - 60s then press stop; what do you see?
Research into visual processing, eye movements, and visual perception of motion is underway in Bristol's Department of Experimental Psychology. Such work has lead to applications such as designing the visual system for the first 'conscious', intelligent robots. Follow the links below to find out more about current interests in the department.
*Please note - not all the contents of this section are absolutely strictly factual and should be taken with tongue firmly in cheek.