Ananova:

A Dutch artist has come up with a technique for making realistic life-size models of human heads - out of paper.

Bert Simons, 42, from Rotterdam, uses Computer Aided Design and illustration programs to make his 3D paper portraits and sculptures.

He first creates a computer model of his subjects and then flattens the model into its component parts. Once a template is created he can print it out on a sheet of paper to cut out and reassemble.

Mr Simons said: "Since a while I am in my midlife crisis, thinking a lot about the purpose of my life, what will remain and things like that.

"Since I don't have a specific talent to make my mark nor even managed to arrange some kids to reflect my existence or even have a beloved one that will never forget me, I guess I am just one of many who just will be forgotten..

"That sucks, but instead of endulging myself into depression I desperately started looking for a solution and I came up with this idea... I decided to clone myself..."

Mr Simons has since created and exhibited models of himself, his friends, a "cardboard cutie" of a woman - and even a turtle.

He adds: "There are many clones made and I also have a girlfriend now. I am very happy now!"