Museum of the Eye’s Craft & Learn: Wonder Turner (July 18-25)
EVENT UPDATE: There are no upcoming events known for this event series - please check the organizer website for any updates.
Join us for a hands-on crafting session to learn how the eye and brain communicate to interpret images by creating your own optical toy.
Discover the fascinating science behind optical illusions in Craft & Learn: Wonder Turner! Learn about the wonder turner (thaumatrope), a Victorian-era toy used to demonstrate how the brain processes image through “persistence of vision.”
The toy is made from a small paper disc with a different image on each side. When spun quickly with strings, the two images appear to merge into one, creating a simple but captivating illusion.
Craft & Learn: Wonder Turner
Saturdays, July 18 & 25, 2026 | 2p – 3:30p
Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye, 645 Beach St., SF
FREE | RSVP – Seats are limited. Ages 8 & up
During this free, hands-on event program, you’ll learn how the persistence of vision works, explore the history of optical toys, and create your own wonder turner to take home.
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