Can anyone explain to me why the black and white checkered floor is a common motif in surrealist art?

Question

I'm sure you've seen it if you've looked at enough surrealist art. The black and white checkered floor base with some otherworldly scene going on top of it? I've always wondered why artists like Dali and Magritte utilized this motif in their art...??????????

Answer 1

the checkered floor gives a linear element leading to infinity which gives the work a sense of depth extending beyond the theatrical setting inherent in some of the pieces. The checkerboard, like it’s namesake, also provides the notion of a game afoot, however the game is one of visual unity within an open form

Answer 2

I must surmise the answer to your question. This just wasn't discussed in any of my art history classes. But I did do quite a bit of design, design psychology, and general psychology classes. So, what I think about this is:
black and white checked floors are frequently chosen by dynamic personalities. Think about it, it's quite a dynamic combination, isn't it?! So, perhaps Magritte and Dali, who were genuine leaders in the art field, with amazing ideas and concepts way beyond what the average artist was doing at the time, also chose their b/w checks because it satisfied their sensibilities. Sound okay? I hope it works for you.

Answer 3

It's satisfying.
Take another gander at Escher's works.
~Kat

Answer 4

Effective way to express perspective in a dynamic way.....