This print by M.C. Escher, titled 'Whirlpools', features two intertwined spirals of stylised fish in red and grey, creating a captivating optical illusion.

Maurits Cornelis Escher (1898-1972) was a Dutch graphic artist known for his mathematically inspired woodcuts, lithographs, and mezzotints. His work explores concepts of infinity, symmetry, and tessellation, often incorporating impossible constructions and optical illusions. Escher's art gained popularity among scientists and mathematicians, as well as the general public, for its intellectual and visual appeal. He created a unique artistic language that continues to fascinate and inspire. 'Whirlpools' presents a captivating optical illusion. The image depicts two intertwined spirals, each composed of stylised fish. One spiral features red fish, while the other contains grey fish. The fish are arranged in a repeating pattern that creates a sense of depth and movement, drawing the viewer's eye towards the centre of each spiral. The composition plays with positive and negative space, as the fish from each spiral interlock to form a continuous, flowing design. The stark contrast between the red, grey, and white enhances the visual impact of the artwork, contributing to its overall sense of dynamism and illusion.