Several years ago, I posted a portrait of the first Wilson [later renamed C.H. Darden] High School class to receive high school diplomas. A few days ago, I received a clearer copy of the Class of ’28 photo from a family member of one of the students.

I wondered how AI might render their images. Beautifully, it turns out.

Jennie Parker (1909-2006), class prophet.

Herman Bess, class valedictorian.

 

Ada Harris (1908-2010), class treasurer.

[N.B. Notwithstanding their beauty, my usual caveat about AI photo restoration stands: I am ambivalent about using artificial intelligence to restore photographs. Or, more specifically, I’m concerned about manipulated photographs supplanting original images and further blurring the line between reality and misinformation.]

Thank you, Niko Dias!