The Art of Deception: The Affinity Between Conjuring & Art Hardcover – October 30, 2025

THE ART OF DECEPTION (3rd Ed.) is an extraordinary award-winning book that delves into the captivating world of magic art and the talented individuals behind its creation.The magician and artist are similar in many ways. As is true of painting or drawing, magic is a visual form of expression. Seizing an inanimate substance such as paint or ink, and using a brush or pen as a magic wand, artists create worlds of fantasy on canvas and paper. Magicians and artists alike strive to evoke wonder in the hearts and minds of their audience.This third edition of the classic work examines prominent artists from both history and modern times. It discusses early magic art exemplified by the likes of Bosch and Bruegel, as well as Daumier and Cham. The book provides an in-depth exploration of the lithographic process, the companies that produced magic lithographs, and the performers like Houdini and Thurston who have been immortalized through them.In addition, this edition showcases contemporary collectors dedicated to preserving magic art for future generations. It features not only catalog and magazine illustrators, but also explores magic’s connection to comic books and includes artists who produce fine art through painting or sculpture, among many other topics, all presented in a richly illustrated format. Read more