Experiencing the Untouchable: A Method for Scientific Exploration and Haptic Fruition of Artworks Microsurface Based...

Area of Science:

• Art conservation science
• Holography
• 3D printing technologies

Background:

• Tactile exploration is crucial for understanding object surfaces, especially artworks.
• Current methods limit tactile interaction with delicate or inaccessible art surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate conoscopic holography for high-resolution artwork surface acquisition.
• To enable tactile use of artworks for visually impaired individuals.
• To provide a tool for scientific visualization of artwork microsurfaces for conservation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing conoscopic holography sensors for micro-scale surface data acquisition.
• Developing a workflow for 3D printing of multiscale and polychrome artworks.
• Validating the method on Italian masterpieces like Donatello's "Death of Christ" and Tintoretto's "St. Martial in Glory."

Main Results:

• High-quality surface data acquisition up to the micro-scale was achieved.
• A validated workflow for creating 3D printed tactile replicas was established.
• The potential for innovative scientific visualization of artwork microsurfaces was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Conoscopic holography offers a novel approach for detailed artwork surface analysis.
• 3D printed replicas facilitate haptic engagement with art for accessibility and education.
• This technology serves as a valuable resource for art conservation and scientific study.