Member Profile: Anastasia Tyurina

1. What do you do, and how long have you been doing it?

I am the Academic Lead of Learning and Teaching and a Senior Lecturer in Visual Communication at the School of Design, Queensland University of Technology. With over 20 years of experience in teaching, research, and industry roles, I specialise in design, emerging technologies, and new media art. My work focuses on creating transformative experiences that blend science, technology, arts, and design to advocate for social change and well-being.

2. What was your first job?

My first job was as a graphic designer for a small design studio, where I worked on branding and visual communication projects. This role sparked my passion for interdisciplinary design and the power of visuals to convey complex ideas.

3. Where did you complete your formal education?

I completed my formal education in design and media arts. I hold a Bachelor of Education in Visual Arts from Moscow Region State University, a Master of Arts in Photojournalism from Lomonosov Moscow State University, and a PhD from the Queensland College of Art (QCA) at Griffith University. My academic journey has spanned continents and disciplines, reflecting my passion for blending art, design, and technology in innovative ways. My academic journey has been deeply rooted in pushing the boundaries of traditional design practices.

4. How did you first get involved with ACM SIGGRAPH?

I first became involved with ACM SIGGRAPH through my research in immersive digital experiences and creative coding. Attending SIGGRAPH conferences allowed me to connect with like-minded professionals and showcase my work at the intersection of art, design, and technology.

5. What is your favorite memory of a SIGGRAPH conference?

One of my favourite memories was presenting at the Education Forum at SIGGRAPH Asia 2023. It was an incredible opportunity to share my interdisciplinary approach to teaching and learning, and the engagement with educators and practitioners from around the world was both inspiring and rewarding. The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing design education.

6. Describe a project that you would like to share with the ACM SIGGRAPH community.

A significant direction in my creative practice involves collaborating with Indigenous communities to explore the intersection of cultural heritage preservation, Indigenous knowledge, and advanced technologies. By blending storytelling, scientific exploration, and cutting-edge technology, the projects aim to educate broader audiences, foster appreciation for Indigenous heritage. This direction reflects my commitment to using design and technology as tools for cultural continuity, social change, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous knowledge systems. I look forward to sharing this work with the ACM SIGGRAPH community to inspire dialogue and collaboration around the preservation of more-than-human heritage.

7. If you could have dinner with one living or non-living person, who would it be and why?

I would choose to have dinner with György Kepes, the visionary artist, designer, and educator who founded the Centre for Advanced Visual Studies at MIT. His pioneering work at the intersection of art, science, and technology profoundly influenced the fields of visual communication and interdisciplinary design. I would love to discuss his ideas about the role of art and design in shaping human perception and his belief in the transformative power of creativity to address societal challenges. His legacy continues to inspire my work.

8. What is something most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know that I have a deep fascination with astronomy and often incorporate celestial themes into my creative projects. The vastness of the universe inspires me to think beyond conventional limits.

9. From which single individual have you learned the most in your life? What did they teach you?

It’s hard to name just one person, as I’ve been fortunate to learn from many inspiring individuals across different spheres of my life. From mentors in academia to collaborators in creative practice and members of Indigenous communities, each has contributed uniquely to my growth. Collectively, they have taught me the value of curiosity, resilience, and the importance of interdisciplinary thinking. I’m deeply grateful for the diverse perspectives and wisdom they’ve shared, which continue to shape my work and worldview.

10. Is there someone in particular who has influenced your decision to work with ACM SIGGRAPH?

Several inspiring individuals have influenced my involvement with ACM SIGGRAPH. Everardo Reyes, Andrés Burbano, and June Kim have been particularly influential through their groundbreaking work and dedication to bridging art, science, and technology. Their innovative approaches and commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration have motivated me to engage deeply with the SIGGRAPH community and contribute to its mission of advancing the fields of digital art, design, and technology.

11. What can you point to in your career as your proudest moment?

One of my proudest achievements is the success of my students and the impact I’ve had on their professional journeys. Seeing them thrive in their careers, push boundaries, and contribute meaningfully to the fields of design, technology, and beyond is incredibly rewarding. I take great pride in knowing that I’ve played a role in shaping their paths and leaving a legacy through their accomplishments. Their success is a testament to the power of education and mentorship, and it remains one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career.