Escher, a remakable artist

Dutch graphic artist M C Escher only really became famous in the 21st century. Despite a lifetime of work his first exhibition was held when he was aged 70. He died aged 74 in 1972. 

He didn't particularly like school and reportedly was a poor student. He spent much of his time day dreaming about alternative perspectives. His famous staircase series is based on the central staircase within his school. His pictures would later provide inspiration for the moving stair case at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series. 

Escher was fascinated by the natural world in particular Italy. He and his family spent a great deal of time there, where he perfected his tessellated designs and illusions of perspective that became his signature.

You can admire his work, and we recommend that you do if you have the opportunity in Het Paleis, the former Royal Winter Palace in The Hague where the is a permanent exhibition of his art. 

The exhibition includes his Italian landscapes, posters, wooden spheres and studies; along with family photos that tell the story of the artists life. There is also interactive displays that include the opportunity to make your own perspective altering photograph.