From Surface to Site: Art Character-isation and Digital Documentation as an Integrated Pipeline

​This masterclass offers a conceptual and case-driven exploration of art characterisation and digital

documentation as developed and applied by APAC Labs, spanning paintings, icons, sculptures,

archaeological artefacts, and entire heritage sites. Through selected case studies, the session

demonstrates how scientific methodologies — including advanced imaging, material analysis, and

3D documentation — are integrated into a coherent workflow, linking micro-scale evidence and the

characterisation of materiality to macro-scale spatial interpretation. Emphasis is placed on how

these approaches support conservation, interpretation, and long-term cultural value creation across

artistic and archaeological contexts.

Dr. Athanasios Koutoupas

Athanasios Koutoupas is a Senior Research Officer in Cultural Heritage and Innovation at The

Cyprus Institute. He holds a PhD in Science and Technology in Cultural Heritage, with research

focusing on the religious, social, and topographical transformations of Alexandria from the Graeco-

Roman to the Early Christian period, with particular emphasis on funerary landscapes, memory, and

urban continuity. He is actively involved in the coordination and strategic development of the

Andreas Pittas Art Characterization Laboratories, contributing to interdisciplinary research, digital

documentation and visualization, and the innovation and commercialization of heritage-science

services. His work bridges historical and archaeological research with digital humanities, research

infrastructures, and innovation.