Can You Spot The AI Faces Hidden In These Mesmerizing Patterned Paintings?

By Ell Ko, 08 Oct 2021

‘Definable Aspect’ / Image via Lee Wagstaff and featured with permission

With the power of artificial intelligence and a few simple repeating patterns, these paintings, already intricate on the surface, reveal something deeper upon farther—not closer—look.

The oil portraits see AI-generated faces integrated into the geometric pattern, with the lines and strokes bolding and thinning to etch out the features of the person.

Unlike other art pieces, which seem clearer when viewed up close, the faces are more visible when looking at farther away or through an external camera. Try it.

These stunning paintings were created by Berlin-based artist Lee Wagstaff, who explains that pattern is a “recurring theme” in his work, describing himself as “drawn to patterns that predict and perhaps defy cosmic order.” And when he makes art, the thought of “whether it is still possible to make images and objects that embody ideas of faith, beauty and truth” comes to mind.

‘Free Radical’ / Image via Lee Wagstaff and featured with permission

“The source material comes from AI-generated faces,” the artist tells My Modern Met, clarifying that none of the subjects exist in the real world, nor will they ever exist.

“With these paintings, I wanted to see how image data from the original faces could be altered, removed, or camouflaged whilst still maintaining the essence of the original forms.”

While some of Wagstaff’s works are available to view below, more in the series can be found on his Instagram page, with artwork also up on his online store.