28 Surreal Pictures From The Lens Of A Photographer Who “Looks At Usual Things With Unusual Eyes”

From a digital artist who started painting at an early age

Author image for Damjan Milenkovic
Damjan Milenkovic
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These amazing pictures are from a professional digital artist and photographer from Athens, Greece, named Lila. She uses Adobe Photoshop to merge her pictures and create surreal scenes.

Looking at usual things with unusual eyes is how the photographer likes to operate. Lila's father, who at one point worked as a writer, inspired her to pursue a career in photography.

Lila used to borrow his camera to take pictures, as he possessed a 1960s-era SHUMY toy camera. The talented photographer also shared:

"I started painting at an early age. I took some painting lessons at the age of 16, and after three years, I enrolled in photography school. During my studies, I began experimenting with image editing programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects, and that's how digital art caught my interest." As Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist, states, "Creativity is not just about having ideas; it's about making connections between seemingly unrelated things" (adamgrant.net).

Surrealism has long appealed to Lila, as it all began, in some way, with literature and art. She recalls seeing images in her head as she read one of Poe's books.

"Then, music videos and cinema made me want to create surreal images because I was watching scenes and thinking, 'Wow, I want to make that.' Well, Lila did make it, and we're about to dive into her surreal world below.

More info: Instagram | lil-tales.tumblr.com

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1. Come here, you!

1. Come here, you!1. Come here, you!

2. Those are some huge keys

2. Those are some huge keys
2. Those are some huge keys

3. Yes, our furry buddy made it to heaven

3. Yes, our furry buddy made it to heaven
3. Yes, our furry buddy made it to heaven

Lila's artistic approach exemplifies the power of creativity in transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary visual stories. According to Dr. Jane Goodall, a renowned primatologist, art can serve as a vital medium for raising awareness about wildlife and environmental issues. By reshaping perceptions through art, artists can engage audiences who might otherwise remain indifferent.

This connection between art and environmental advocacy underscores the importance of innovative storytelling methods in fostering empathy and understanding towards nature.

The ability to view ordinary life through an extraordinary lens can lead to profound personal insights. Dr. Virginia Satir, a family therapist, emphasizes that perspective shapes our understanding of the world. By challenging conventional views, artists like Lila encourage viewers to explore deeper emotional truths and foster personal growth.

Practicing mindfulness in daily life can help individuals cultivate this perspective shift, enhancing their appreciation for the beauty in the mundane.

4. In a place far, far away

4. In a place far, far away4. In a place far, far away

5. That is such a nice blend

5. That is such a nice blend5. That is such a nice blend

6. I guess it will have life again

6. I guess it will have life again6. I guess it will have life again

Photography, particularly digital manipulation, can be a powerful tool for self-expression. As Dr. Brené Brown, a vulnerability researcher, explains, sharing personal narratives through creative means can foster deeper connections and understanding among individuals.

Artists like Lila tap into their unique experiences and perspectives, allowing viewers to engage with their interpretations of reality. This process not only empowers the artist but can also lead to catharsis for the audience.

7. Looks like a nice start for a movie

7. Looks like a nice start for a movie
7. Looks like a nice start for a movie
I am passionate about this type of art because it allows you to freeze a moment in time. That moment becomes a memory, and then digitally, you can convert that moment into whatever you want. Seeing my images, I want people to activate their own imagination and create their own story inside their heads.

8. It's sinking

8. It's sinking8. It's sinking

9. The red cloth you see in the distance

9. The red cloth you see in the distance9. The red cloth you see in the distance

Artistic expression is a crucial means of processing and communicating complex emotions. Dr. Rick Hanson, a neuropsychologist, points out that creative outlets can help individuals regulate their emotions and enhance overall mental well-being. By capturing surreal images, Lila invites viewers to contemplate their perceptions and experiences.

To further deepen this impact, artists can consider incorporating interactive elements into their work, allowing audiences to actively participate and engage with the art. Such engagement can lead to transformative experiences.

10. The pool of water you don't want to be in

10. The pool of water you don't want to be in10. The pool of water you don't want to be in

11. That is so surreal

11. That is so surreal11. That is so surreal

12. The functioning snail

12. The functioning snail12. The functioning snail

Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, an expert in dog cognition, emphasizes the importance of perspective in understanding behavior. Lila's work reflects this concept by encouraging viewers to see the familiar through a new lens. This artistic approach can also help foster empathy for animals, as it challenges preconceived notions of their behavior and experiences.

Such insights can be particularly valuable in promoting animal welfare and conservation efforts, urging viewers to take action on behalf of creatures often overlooked.

13. Sailing through

13. Sailing through13. Sailing through

14. The crystal ball

14. The crystal ball14. The crystal ball

15. It's hovering around the earth

15. It's hovering around the earth15. It's hovering around the earth

In today's digital age, the role of photography has evolved, becoming a prominent form of storytelling. As noted by Dr. Chris Packham, a naturalist, photography can serve as a catalyst for environmental awareness. By showcasing intricate details of nature, artists can inspire audiences to appreciate and protect the world around them.

Incorporating educational elements alongside artistic displays can further enhance this impact, providing viewers with actionable insights on conservation efforts.

16. What comes out from within

16. What comes out from within16. What comes out from within

17. Nice one

17. Nice one17. Nice one

18. Going into the deep

18. Going into the deep18. Going into the deep

Art therapy has been shown to improve mental health outcomes, making it a valuable tool in emotional regulation. According to Dr. Madeline Levine, a clinical psychologist, creative expression can help individuals process trauma and stress. For artists like Lila, this can translate into their work, offering viewers a glimpse into their emotional landscapes.

Encouraging others to explore their creativity can foster resilience and emotional wellness, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of art.

19. A deserted plane

19. A deserted plane19. A deserted plane

20. Nesting as the head

20. Nesting as the head20. Nesting as the head

21. Where's the house going?

21. Where's the house going?21. Where's the house going?

The intersection of art and technology opens up limitless possibilities for creative expression. Dr. Brian Cox, a physicist, highlights how innovative tools can augment artistic practices, allowing for more intricate and engaging pieces. Lila's use of Adobe Photoshop exemplifies this trend, merging traditional photography with digital manipulation.

Artists looking to expand their creative horizons should consider exploring new technologies and techniques, enabling them to push the boundaries of their artistry and storytelling capabilities.

22. It's sailing

22. It's sailing22. It's sailing

23. The whirl mirror

23. The whirl mirror23. The whirl mirror

24. That's a big one

24. That's a big one24. That's a big one

When artists like Lila create surreal images, they often reflect societal concerns and collective anxieties. Dr. Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, explains that art can reveal underlying truths about human behavior and societal issues. By engaging with these works, audiences may gain insights into their own perceptions and biases.

To foster deeper connection, artists can consider hosting discussions or workshops around their work, encouraging dialogue and reflection among viewers.

25. That's a huge bottle

25. That's a huge bottle25. That's a huge bottle

26. What a view

26. What a view26. What a view

27. Eat into it

27. Eat into it27. Eat into it

Visual storytelling has become a powerful medium for advocacy, especially in environmental contexts. According to Dr. Leah Stokes, a climate policy expert, art can significantly influence public opinion and motivate action. Lila's surreal images can spark conversations about conservation and environmental issues, prompting viewers to rethink their roles in protecting the planet.

Artists can enhance this impact by collaborating with environmental organizations, amplifying their messages through art exhibitions and campaigns.

28. Awesome

28. Awesome28. Awesome

The photographer expresses a desire to continue creating art that reflects her identity, hoping it will eventually resonate with others. As Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned character researcher, states, "Passion and perseverance are key to achieving long-term goals," which aligns with her artistic journey. We invite you to share your thoughts on this collection by leaving a comment below.

Feel free to share this post with your loved ones to gather their insights as well. You can also explore more of her artwork on Dr. Angela Duckworth's website.

Ultimately, Lila's work serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art in reshaping perceptions and fostering connections. By merging traditional photography with digital manipulation, she invites viewers to explore new interpretations of reality, encouraging empathy and understanding.

As experts like Dr. Brené Brown and Dr. Chris Packham highlight, art can play a vital role in addressing societal issues and promoting emotional well-being. Engaging audiences through innovative storytelling methods can lead to a deeper appreciation for both the art itself and the themes it represents.

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