An Optical Illusion

This is a cool optical illusion, based on persistence of vision. (Thanks to Emily.)

Follow these instructions:

  1. Relax and concentrate on the four small dots in the middle of the picture below for about 30-40 seconds.

  2. Close your eyes, or look at a wall near you (any smooth, single colored surface should do).

  3. You will see a circle of light developing.

  4. What do you see? Moreover, who do you see?

an optical illusion