In general, the decorative arts refer to arts and crafts disciplines that have traditionally been excluded from the so-called fine arts. In addition, decorative arts are typically considered to have some function, while fine arts are purely intended for aesthetic enjoyment. For example, fine arts disciplines include painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography. By contrast, decorative arts may include ceramics, carving, mosaic, weaving, glassware, wallpaper, enamel work, jewelry, and any other methods of creating items that are both beautiful and functional. In most cases, decorative arts are also associated with domestic spaces, used to adorn the home while also serving a domestic purpose. In some cases, decorative arts may also produce wearable objects, such as jewelry, meant to beautify the wearer

Illusions may refer to a wide array of phenomena, including performances with supposedly magical elements as well as printed or painted images. The latter, so-called optical illusions, play with the typical way that we cognitively process visual information. Often, these images have some trick element, using artistic principles of perspective or color contrast to create a surprising or misleading visual impression

In a sense, illusion is central to the way that decorative arts and crafts relate to interior design. To take a very simple example, a higher ceiling can create the illusion of a larger room. Interior designers may also enlist the help of skilled artisans or craftsmen to create more elaborate illusions. For example, skillfully executed wallpaper can create the illusion of a more spacious room, or it can help draw the eye around an otherwise empty space. Even decorative ceiling tiles can change the way that we experience a room. Ceiling tiles in dark colors can make the ceiling appear to recede, giving an airier feel to the room