PREFACE - 4
PREFACE Before the invention of the cinema projector, European audiences gathered in dark rooms to watch the magic lantern, presentations by Father Athanasius Kircher who helped popularize the magic lantern, a simple slide projector, with the publication of the book “Ars Magna Lucis et Umbrae �in 1680. Magic lanterns used, a candle or a lamp as a source of light. The images were projected onto a sheet or wall. The controversy followed shortly afterwards as priests and masons used the headlights "to convince followers of their ability to control both the forces of darkness and enlightenment"
and
temperance
groups
used
the
headlights to combat alcoholism. In 1800 missionaries like David Livingston used the lighthouses to preach the Gospel in Africa. After movie theaters appeared, magic lanterns lost their popularity and disappeared from the public. Some magic lantern enthusiasts wanted to preserve this art form. Arts Festival
