When AIGC meets ancient Chinese paintings: Ten Views of the West Lake in a new light

What happens when generative artificial intelligence (AIGC) collides with traditional Chinese painting? Recently, Zhejiang University’s Laboratory of Art and Archaeology Image (ZJU AAI Lab) utilized the Alibaba Cloud Artificial Intelligence Platform, PAI ArtLab, to launch an AIGC version of Ten Views of the West Lake, a collaborative achievement in academia, industry, and research. This initiative marks China's first exploration of combining AIGC technology with traditional Chinese painting.

At the heart of this endeavor is the reinterpretation of the renowned Ten Views of the West Lake. Displayed on a large screen within the laboratory, the Qing Dynasty masterpiece by DONG Bangda undergoes subtle alterations as the camera moves, thus breathing new life into the timeless beauty of the West Lake.

Dr. CHEN Xiaojiao, a doctoral supervisor from the School of Art and Archaeology, leads this pioneering project. She highlights the interdisciplinary nature of the project, merging the realms of art and technology. With guidance from experts at Alibaba Cloud Design Center, six graduate students dedicated two months to meticulously crafting this digital masterpiece.

This groundbreaking collaboration extends beyond academic endeavors and holds promise for practical applications. Plans are underway to incorporate this interactive design into promotional materials for the West Lake tourist area, thereby enhancing the cultural experience for visitors and driving innovation in the tourism industry.

The genesis of this achievement is a collaborative effort between the School of Art and Archaeology and the College of Computer Science and Technology, in partnership with Alibaba Cloud. This forms a core component of the Master’s program in Art Imaging and Digital Creative Technology. The course transcends traditional boundaries by exploring the possibilities of generative AI in the visualization and reinterpretation of traditional Chinese painting.