Paul Dolan

I am an artist and researcher. My research is based around computer simulations and the environment, and can be divided into four main areas of interest:

The ecological impact of virtual culture –I am interested in the operational and physical impact of computer simulations and digital media on the physical environment. My current practice explores physical sites involved in the mining, manufacturing and disposal of digital media. This work sits within a critical media infrastructures context.

The ontology of Computer simulations – I use the term computer simulations to mean animation, videogames and VFX processes across commercial and artistic contexts. I am interested in the ontological form and behaviour of computer simulations – what they are, how they work, and what impact they have on contemporary life. This is informed by theories of ontogenesis and theories of becoming in Giles Delueze and Gilbert Simondon.

Recalcitrant Temporalities – I am interested in how time is constructed in real-time computer simulations. My research challenges the simplicity of the term ‘real-time’ and offers an Assemblage Theory-based approach to understanding heterogenous temporalities that cut across human, non-human, physical and virtual domains.

Re-materialising simulations – My research adopts new-materialist philosophies to understanding digital media and art. I am interested in using contemporary art practice to gain a better understanding of where the intersections of the real and virtual lie in computer simulations. Existing research on Software Studies, Media Ecologies, Media Archaeology and other forms of Digital Materialisms all underpin this line of thinking.

Teaching

MI7005 Experimental Animation 1: This module uses experimental processes to help students reflect on and develop their animation practice.
MI6021 & MI6015 Final Project Research and Development & Final Project: Production and Realisation: This module constitutes the final year project for undergraduates, in which they make a short animated film over the course of a year.
MI5018 Compositing for Animation: This module provides students with an opportunity to composite 2D and 3D animation into live video footage.
MI5015 3D Games Design: This module introduces students to real-time animation, game engine processes and visual scripting. Students are asked to re-create the inside of a contemporary artists’ mind using a game engine.
In the past I have also taught Introduction to Animation, Motion Graphics, Sound and Edit and Interactive Animation.