Summary

By using parameterization techniques which model the knowledge space of a living or cognitive systems (eg. the behaviour 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. DiPaola will discuss and demonstrate his work in this area (see ivizlab.sfu.ca). DiPaola will demonstrate a parameterized approach to synthetic facial communication, 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.

Steve DiPaola, is Director of Cognitive Science 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 came to SFU from Stanford University and before that NYIT Computer Graphics Lab. He has held leadership positions at Electronic Arts, Saatchi Innovation. 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.

Steve DiPaola's research can be located at this website