Modeling human expression and creativity using cognitive based artificial intelligence
By using parameterization techniques which model the knowledge space of a living or cognitive systems (eg. the behavior space of whales, the expression space of faces) it is possible to use Artificial Intelligence techniques such as Neural Networks and Genetic Programming to create new types of expression systems for use in communication, learning, interactive games and digital media systems. Steve DiPaola will discuss and demonstrate his work in this area (see ivizlab.sfu.ca). Best known for his expertise in AI based 3D facial and avatar systems, DiPaola will demonstrate iFace research which uses a parameterized approach to synthetic facial communication, and its applications in psychology, gaming and learning. He will show his lab's ongoing work with the Vancouver Aquarium to create an alife based Virtual Beluga Whale Interactive, where visitors can collaboratively interact with a simulated pod of wild beluga whales, as well as more experimental systems that explore expression and creativity models -- such as genetic programming techniques that create Persian rugs design and art paintings as a way to enhance automatic computer creativity.
About the speaker
Steve DiPaola, active as an artist and a scientist, is Director of the Cognitive Science Program at Simon Fraser University, and leads the iVizLab (ivizlab.sfu.ca), a research lab that strives to make computational systems bend more to the human experience by incorporating biological, cognitive and behavior knowledge models. Much of the labs work is creating computation models of very human ideals such as expression, emotion, behavior and creativity. He is most known for his AI based computational creativity (darwinsgaze.com) and 3D facial expression systems. He came to SFU from Stanford University and before that NYIT Computer Graphics Lab, an early pioneering lab in high-end graphics techniques. He has held leadership positions at Electronic Arts, Saatchi Innovation and consulted for HP, Macromedia and the Institute for the Future. His computer based art has been exhibited internationally including the AIR and Tibor de Nagy galleries in NYC, Tenderpixel Gallery in London and Cambridge University's Kings Art Centre. The work has also been exhibited in major museums, including the Whitney Museum, the MIT Museum, and the Smithsonian. His science work has been published in over 50 peer reviewed science publications and showcased in the journal Nature.
