What do you think of the idea of using 'Bristle Engine' to simulate oilpaint effect?

There are a few ways to reduce the gap between tips. You can try apply local processing on Gmic.
I find adding texture can help. And playing with the tip a little such that the tail end fades.

Also have you tried this template?: Alpha Bumpmap Impasto Template
Prior to the bumpmap filter, the effect looks like oil paint

I do think Bristle Engine has a lot of potential and would welcome more ways to configue it.