Introduction to Jeroen Dik: Bridging Art and Science
We look at the incredibly significant contribution made by Jeroen Dik, a well-known Dutch scientist as well as professor of TU Delft, who has revolutionized the field of technical conservation and art history. His innovative work focuses on the analysis of artifacts from the past using non-invasive imaging techniques as well as fundamental analysis which makes him one of the leading artists in the field of restoration and research on materials.
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Academic Background and Professional Affiliations
Jeroen Dik has an PhD in Chemistry from the University of Amsterdam, with postdoctoral research being conducted in the Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles. Currently, he is a Professor of Materials in Art and Archaeology at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). His work with other institutions like:
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The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
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The Van Gogh Museum
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The Mauritshuis
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Princeton University
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The Louvre
These partnerships enable his multidisciplinary research at the interplay between materials science, art conservation ethics, and materials science.
Innovations in Imaging Technology for Art Analysis
Jeroen Dik is renowned for his invention and application of sophisticated scanning and imaging methods to see into the depths of paintings from centuries old without destroying the artwork. Dik’s methods have revolutionized the way museums and scholars interpret art.
Notable Techniques Developed or Applied:
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Macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF): A non-destructive technique for mapping elements that uncovers the hidden layers and pigments within paintings.
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Terahertz imaging is used for scanning subsurface layers as well as canvas textures.
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3-D digital modeling of paint Layers Recreates the painting process as it was originally designed and the material composition.
Landmark Discoveries and Art Restoration Cases
The Hidden Portrait Under Van Gogh’s “Patch of Grass”
One of the more talked about instances in the world of art, Jeroen Dik and his team employed MA-XRF scans to find a missing portrait underneath the Van Gogh’s Patch of Grass. This hidden image revealed a face of a woman which was painted by the artist in his earlier Paris period. This discovery was essential to understanding the reasons behind Van Gogh’s use of canvasses due to financial limitations.
Rembrandt’s “Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp”
Through the use of advanced multispectral imaging Dik has revealed alterations and pentimenti in Rembrandt’s renowned work, and shed an understanding of the artist’s changing artistic process as well as anatomical research techniques. These discoveries influenced the way Rembrandt’s teaching methods and his artistic vision are seen in the present.
Materials Science Meets Art Conservation
Jeroen Dik’s research focuses in the characterization of materials which combines chemistry computing science, and physics. His laboratory is located at TU Delft is equipped with synchrotron radiation instruments, FTIR spectroscopy and microsampling equipment to study:
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Vermilion, yellow lead-tin, and lapis lazuli are pigments.
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The degradation patterns of organic binding agents
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Environmental exposure has effects on varnishes with a long life
This allows restorers to take informed decisions to safeguard fragile masterpieces from irreparable destruction.
Educational Contributions and Public Engagement
Dik regularly shares his research discoveries via scientific journals, international symposia and free-access database. Dik’s work is also highlighted in the media of public interest like BBC, National Geographic and TED Talks and brings science-based art analysis into the spotlight of the world.
Courses and Lectures:
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The Science of Art Historians – The TU Delft curriculum
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Lectures given by guest lecturers in Harvard, Oxford, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art
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Online modules through edX and Coursera
Collaborative Projects and European Research Initiatives
Jeroen Dik is the leader and is a part of a variety of large-scale EU-funded projects.
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IPERION CH: Integrated Platform for the European Research Infrastructure ON Cultural Heritage
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CHARISMA: Cultural Heritage Advanced Research Infrastructures
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PANART: Pigment Analysis for Non-Invasive Art Research Technologies
These initiatives connect conservation researchers with data engineers, conservation scientists, and curators to create European-wide frameworks to support research in cultural heritage..
Awards and Recognition
Jeroen Dik’s accomplishments have earned the world’s attention:
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KNAW Early Career Award – Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences
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Dutch Research Council (NWO) Vidi Grant
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Honorary advisory roles in international conservation and museums
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Participant in UNESCO scientific programs for the past
The Future of Art Conservation Through Scientific Innovation
Dik sees a future in which the use of AI to analyze images, digital twins of the most famous works as well as environmentally sustainable conservation materials will be standard. Dik continues to guide the future generation of conservation scientists and provides advice on the development of multidisciplinary labs at institutions of culture all over the world.
We recognize Jeroen Dik as a pioneer his work has revolutionized the art conservation field. By using his innovative scientific methods collaboration projects, as well as educational outreach, he has ensured that the heritage of our most prized artifacts lasts. His work extends beyond the lab, into the classrooms, galleries and digital landscapes that are shaping the future of the ways we learn about and protect art.