hreads of the Nerve: The Micro Art of the Future

Photorealism is a genre of painting that meticulously depicts reality, much like a photograph. Its history is long, evolving alongside technological advancements. Today, with the utilization of digital technology, it continues to expand the possibilities of new artistic expressions.  

Origins and History of Photorealism

The origins of photorealism can be traced back to the Renaissance. Masters such as Leonardo da Vinci and Albrecht Dürer depicted the human body and natural landscapes with astonishing accuracy. Their works were not merely records but also artistic explorations aiming to capture the essence of their subjects.

During the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, hyper-realistic depictions with meticulous attention to detail became popular in still life and genre paintings. Painters like Jan van Eyck and Johannes Vermeer skillfully expressed subtle changes in light and shadow, as well as differences in texture, captivating viewers.

In the 19th century, the invention of photography led to painting competing with photography in terms of realism. However, some painters pursued hyper-realistic depiction to portray emotions and inner thoughts that could not be expressed through photography. Artists such as Gustave Courbet and William Holman Hunt vividly depicted social issues and human psychology, leaving a strong impression on viewers.

Contemporary Photorealism and Technology

In the latter half of the 20th century, the emergence of new painting materials and tools like airbrushes and acrylic paints further advanced the expression of photorealism. Contemporary photorealists create works that not only possess photographic realism but also incorporate their unique perspectives and interpretations.

The advancement of digital technology has also brought new possibilities to photorealism. By utilizing technologies such as computer graphics and 3D printers, it has become possible to achieve complex shapes and textures that were previously unattainable in traditional painting.

Famous Photorealist Painters and Their Works

• Robert Bechtle (American painter): Meticulously depicts automobiles and suburban landscapes using airbrushes.

• Fumihiko Gomi (Japanese painter): Paints traditional Japanese motifs with hyper-realistic precision using oil paints.

• Tetsuya Ishida (Japanese painter): Expresses the loneliness and anxiety of modern society through symbolic imagery.  

• Kouhei Ohmori (Japanese painter): Shocked the world with his pencil-only drawings of bolts and nuts, featuring delicately rendered metal scratches and condensation.  

Photorealism as Three-Dimensional Images

Photorealism is also leading to attempts to express two-dimensional paintings in a three-dimensional manner. For example, photorealistic paintings created with 3D printers allow viewers to experience the texture of the painting through touch. Additionally, utilizing VR technology makes it possible to enter the painting and appreciate the work from a 360-degree perspective.

The Future of Photorealism

With the evolution of digital technology, it is anticipated that photorealism will enable even more diverse expressions. For instance, utilizing AI technology may allow for the creation of custom-made photorealistic paintings tailored to individual preferences and emotions. Furthermore, there's a possibility of photorealistic paintings using living cells and tissues emerging through the fusion with biotechnology.

Photorealism will evolve beyond mere realistic paintings into a new realm of expression where science, technology, and art converge.

Brain Activity

While the brain nerves of individuals who create photorealistic paintings are not yet fully understood, some research has yielded interesting insights.

• Activation of the Visual Cortex: It is suggested that the visual cortex, the brain region responsible for processing visual information, is highly activated in individuals who create photorealistic paintings. This suggests that their visual information processing abilities are highly developed to carefully observe and accurately reproduce details.

• Collaboration between the Motor Cortex and Cerebellum: Creating photorealistic paintings requires precise control of fine hand movements. Therefore, the collaboration between the motor cortex and cerebellum might be enhanced. The cerebellum plays a crucial role in coordinating and timing movements.  

• Involvement of the Prefrontal Cortex: The prefrontal cortex is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as planning, attention, concentration, and decision-making. Creating photorealistic paintings necessitates planning while painting details while grasping the overall picture, as well as long hours of concentration. The activity of the prefrontal cortex is thought to support these abilities.  

Neuroplasticity

• Changes through Experience: The brain has the property of changing through experience (neuroplasticity). By continuing to create photorealistic paintings, brain regions related to visual information processing, motor control, and higher cognitive functions might be strengthened, potentially enabling even more precise depictions.  

Genetic Factors

• Connection to Talent: Some research suggests that specific gene mutations might be associated with artistic talent. However, the extent to which the ability to create photorealistic paintings is influenced by genetic factors remains unclear.

Future Research

Further research is needed on the brain nerves of individuals who create photorealistic paintings. By combining brain imaging technology and genetic analysis, more detailed mechanisms might be elucidated, and applications to talent development and education can be expected.