Building the impossible

Theoretical and practical workshop on construction in Magic, the art of choosing and structuring methods to make them as deceptive as possible.

Theoretical concepts will be introduced progressively in each class. Although the contents are interconnected, each class is self-contained. Reference will be made to other relevant concepts when appropriate, even if they are not the ones to be explored in deep in that corresponding class

Examples and exercises will be proposed, both to work during the class and to as homework

In each class, at least one routine from my repertoire will be explained and analyzed. The routines require a medium level of skill so the student is assumed to have basic technical knowledge. The material needed for each session will be specified. They will be, for the most part, basic and easily improvisable objects such as cards, coins, cups and balls…

Currently there is workshop scheduled starting in September 2021  

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SESSION I: THE CRAFT OF SPLITTING REALITY

Table of Contents:

•         The characteristics of magic as an artistic
discipline and implications

•         Construction: choosing and structuring the
secret method

•         General scheme and concepts: External Life /
Internal Life

•        General principles of construction

•        The brain and false assumptions

•        False points of departure and illusions

•        Methodological analysis of an effect from the false assumption

•        Problem: Solving the method for an effect

•        Problem: Finding the effects of a method 

In depth study routine: Attention test

Required materials: Standard decks (2), coins (4), a pen / marker with a cap, Double face card (1), Double back card (1)

 

SESSION II: THE CRAFT OF HIDING IN BROAD LIGHT

Table of Contents:

•        The method: concept and classifications

•        Memory: mechanisms, coding, storing and retrieving. False Memories.

•        Information management

•        Coverage: Concept and types of mechanisms

•        Further development of the principle of clarity

•        Exercise: Develop a solution for a new structure for the Chicago opener.

In depth study routine: CTC

Analysis of previous class problems: Coincidences routine

Required materials: Standard decks (1) and an odd backed card

______________________
 

SESSION III: THE CRAFT OF FADING THE CAUSE OF EFFECT

 
•        Structuring the method in time
 
•        Causality: 3 strategies to attack it
 
•        Method exploitation and reserve of power
 
•         Distribution of difficulties
 
•        Formal unity
 
•        Representing the method in time
 
Exercise: Chicago Opener solutions
 
In depth study routine: Streamlined Cups&Balls
 
Material required: standard deck, cups(3), small balls (2) and big loads
(2), and coins (4)

______________________

SESSION IV: THE CRAFT OF GOING UNNOTICED

•        Analyzing the method at the level of actions

•        Concatenated movements

•        Tension and relaxation

•        Method that builds itself

In depth study routines: Coins & Cord, Intuition Poker

Material: Deck, Double
Backer, Double Facer, Chinese coins (4) & Cord

______________________
SESSION V: THE CRAFT OF CHOOSING THE MOST UNLIKELY WEAPON

•        Technique and gimmicks

•        Gimmicks focused on the effect VS the method

•        Resources that favor construction

•        Susceptibility of slow execution

•         Freer principles – unique methods

•        Multipurpose moves

In depth study routine: Twisting Transpo

Material: Deck, Double and a Double Facer

REVIEWS

“I took his workshop series, and absolutely loved it. This is a great mixture of teaching great concepts, and applicable effects, and  the way he teaches makes you absorb the most you can. This was my favourite course ever, and I’d highly recommend it.” F.B.
 
“I first became aware of Pipo Villanueva after seeing a trailer for his video download Magic for the Short Sighted. I could tell this was special – thoughtful, delicate, and truly engaging. I searched out the source and purchased it immediately. It remains a favorite. I was thrilled to learn that he offered a workshop and signed up, hoping to understand how he made his magic so special. Entitled “Building the Impossible – The Craft of Splitting Reality,” the workshop seemed much more structured than the usual workshop. At most workshops and masterclasses you get to spend time with a magician who will explain their thoughts on how they developed a few effects and get help with a few moves. Pipo’s workshop is much more. It is a mini-course on the thinking found in the Spanish school of magic. I believe that for many it will be a transforming event. He delves into the theory on the construction of magic. He emphasizes techniques to make the movements that create the magic economical and invisible. Using carefully chosen effects, Pipo shows how theory can come to life. And yes, there is homework. He gives you the chance to use what you learn in a very safe environment. Pipo’s passion for magic and its history is present in his teaching and his effects. This is a rare opportunity, of which I have not seen anything similar. If unfamiliar with this thinking, you will view magic in a new way and discover your own approach to magic in a different light. Those with experience will solidify their understanding and find practical approaches for creating magic. I found what I was looking for in ways I could not have imagined. If you are serious on learning how to construct magical effects, Pipo’s workshop is not to be missed.” J.Croop
 

WORKSHOP PRESENTATION