Digital facial reconstruction using open-source software defines the technical practice of Brazilian designer Cícero Moraes. Born in 1982 in Chapecó, his professional output bridges forensic anthropology and computer graphics. His work has facilitated scientific displays regarding human evolution and provided reconstructive insights into the visages of historical and religious figures through collaborative international research partnerships.
Professional Training and Early Career
Moraes completed his formal studies at UNINTER between 2009 and 2011, subsequently receiving an honorary degree. His career trajectory has encompassed roles as a graphic designer, illustrator, sculptor, and designer. Based in Brazil, he has professional experience working in Sinop. His technical expertise centers on 3D modeling and design, which he has utilized to integrate forensic dentistry and anthropology into his visual research.
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His primary contributions involve digitizing human history through cranial and facial modeling. In 2013, he developed 12 panels for the "Faces of Evolution" exhibition at the Egyptian and Rosicrucian Museum in Curitiba. By February 2015, he had completed 27 reconstructions, covering subjects ranging from human evolution to specific historical figures from Padua, including Francesco Petrarca, Luca Belludi, and Giovanni Battista Morgagni. His work on St. Anthony of Padua involved collaboration with the Centro Studi Antoniani and the Museum of Anthropology at the University of Padua.
Forensic and Veterinary Applications
Moraes served as a key member of the Brazilian Team of Forensic Anthropology and Odontology (Ebrafol), contributing to the reconstruction of Rose of Lima and Martin of Porres in Peru. Beyond human subjects, he participated in the Animal Avengers group, where he utilized 3D-printing technology to create prosthetics for animals, including a macaw, a toucan, an aracari, and a goose. Additional archaeological projects include the reconstruction of the Lord of Sipan, the Czech vampire of Celakovice, Saint Valentine for the Brazilian Academy of Hagiology, and the 2021 reconstruction of Perak Man with researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Academic Partnerships and Recognition
Collaborations with Rodolfo Melani and Paulo Eduardo Miamoto Dias at the University of São Paulo faculty of dentistry resulted in published techniques for performing facial reconstructions using free software. These efforts included presenting conversion methods for video to CT scans at international computer graphics conferences. This specific partnership garnered two awards for best scientific poster in forensic fields. Moraes is also a member of Mensa International, Intertel, and Sigma Xi.
Fast facts
- Born: 1982, Chapecó, Brazil
- Education: UNINTER (2009-2011)
- Languages: English, Portuguese
- Affiliations: Mensa International, Intertel, Sigma Xi
- Primary Expertise: 3D modeling and facial reconstruction
- Animal Avengers project: 3D-printed prosthetic development
Questions readers ask
What specific software does Cícero Moraes use?
He utilizes free software for scanning techniques and facial reconstruction, as documented in his research publications with the University of São Paulo.
What historical figures has he reconstructed?
His work includes St. Anthony of Padua, Francesco Petrarca, Luca Belludi, Giovanni Battista Morgagni, Saint Valentine, the Lord of Sipan, and the Czech vampire of Celakovice.