Computer Paints ‘New Rembrandt’ From Data Analysis

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn is regarded as one of the most imaginative and talented European artists during the baroque era. As with any iconic artist, it’s always important to showcase their finest work in art galleries to inspire people to take up a creative hobby. The incredible advancements in modern technology allow us to take this one step further and employ data analysis to create new pieces. Recently, a team of engineers working alongside Microsoft managed to create a 3D printed painting in the style of Rembrandt. The end result is absolutely breathtaking and uses the same texture as an authentic oil painting. Emmanuel Flores, director of technology on the project told the BBC:

“We really wanted to understand what makes a face look like a Rembrandt,”

Information about Rembrandt’s previous works were compiled and computers discovered key patterns to gauge his artistic style. For example, it recognized how he would shape a subject’s eyes or other facial features. Machine learning algorithms were developed to create a new piece which accurately mimicked Rembrandt’s signature brush strokes. Flores also added:

“We found that with certain variations in the algorithm, for example, the hair might be distributed in different ways,”

“Our goal was to make a machine that works like Rembrandt,”

“We will understand better what makes a masterpiece a masterpiece.”

To limit the number of possibilities, the computational equations revolved around a portrait of a Caucasian male between the ages of 30 and 40 sporting a fashionable beard. Furthermore, details about the individual’s clothing ensured that the final result could be narrowed down using strict parameters. After being verified with digital tagging, humans selected algorithms based on their efficiency and allowed the computer to create the final piece. Once this was complete, a 3D texture was applied to correspond with the height and depth of paint used on typical Rembrandt works.

For more information about this intriguing project, please visit “The Next Rembrandt” website.