The directional display contains and shows several images-which particular image is visible depends on the viewing direction. This is achieved by packing information at high density on a surface, by a certain back illumination technique, and by explicit mathematical formulas which eliminate projection deformations and make it possible to automate the production of directional displays. The display is illuminated but involves no electronic components. Patent is pending for the directional display. Directional dependency of an image can be used in several ways. One is to achieve three-dimensional effects. In contrast to that of holograms, large size and full color involve no problems. Another application of the technique is to show moving sequences. Yet another is to make a display more directionally independent than conventional displays. It is also possible and useful in several contexts to show different text in different directions with the same display. The features can be combined.