Alex Elmsley

March 2, 1929 – January 8, 2006

Penguin magic is saddened by the loss of UK magical legend and computer scientist Alex Elmsley. Elmsley is most widely known to magicians for inventing the Ghost Count or Elmsley Count. However, he has long been recognized as one of the most brilliant innovators of card and close-up magic in the 20th century. Having invented several utility sleights and hundreds of effects, Alex Elmsley gave so freely to our art that he has changed our vision of close up magic forever. Elmsley lived his life as a lover of magic, mathematics and technology and added greatly to our understanding of the Faro Shuffle. As a magic community we know that no one can ever fill his shoes, but we must always be grateful that he left us his legacy through his books, videos, DVDs and through his remarkable magic. Alex, you will not be forgotten. Peace be with you.

Penguin Magic