Bridget Riley is a prominent British artist known for her optical illusion artworks. Born in 1931 in Norwood, London, she displayed a great interest in art from an early age. Riley initially studied at Goldsmiths College and then continued her studies at the Royal College of Art, where she was influenced by the works of Georges Seurat and Paul Cézanne.

In the 1950s, Riley began her career as an artist by creating black and white paintings with geometric shapes. However, it was not until the 1960s that she developed her signature op art style, which plays with the perception of the viewer. Her paintings often feature lines, curves, and colors that create optical illusions, giving the impression of movement and three-dimensionality.

One of Riley’s most famous works is “Fall”, created in 1963. This painting features a series of vertical stripes in a variety of colors that seem to vibrate and blur as if they are in motion. Another notable work is “Sphinx”, created in 1964, which features a series of black and white stripes that appear to be swirling and spinning.

Throughout her career, Riley has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the art world. In 1968, she became the first woman to win the International Prize for Painting at the Venice Biennale. In 2003, she was awarded the Praemium Imperiale, a prestigious international award for the arts.

Riley’s influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists, particularly those working in the field of abstract art. Her use of optical illusions and geometric shapes has inspired countless artists to explore the boundaries of perception and create works that challenge our understanding of the world around us.

Overall, Bridget Riley is a pioneering artist who has left an indelible mark on the art world. Her innovative use of color, shape, and perception continues to inspire new generations of artists and art enthusiasts.