Prof. G. Keith Still PhD. BSc. FIMA

My kids love magic (so do I) but there is a serious side to this passion of mine. The art of direction (misdirection), what we see, what we think we see, what the magician wants us to see, all have practical applications to the placement and visibility of signage and information. 

The sign may be there - but how do we "perceive" the information on the sign - what do we see and what do we act upon?

There is very little published on the human reaction and perceptions that relate to signage - but there is a vast library of the art of directing a crowds attention to specific, VERY specific elements of a magical performance. Of course I'm bound by the magician's code not to reveal those techniques - but can apply the same fundamental principles to crowd management, site design, information and crowd direction where appropriate.

Among my studies are the "short cons" (Fast and Loose, Three Card Monte and the Shell Game). These short con games have a specific interest to my research as the operator manipulates the crowd to great effect. Scalpers and ticket touts operate in a similar manner - understanding the crowds needs and playing to their weaknesses.

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The GYRE (from SonicWarp - makers of ISIS Puzzles) was a one shot trick. 

Here are some of the neat things you COULD do with it.

GYRE Spellbound

I've adapted a David Roth routine for this effect

See the performance video - click here GYRE Spellbound

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GYRE through a £10 note