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A little bit about me.

A computer graphic 3d model of the author of this page created in  Reallusion Character Creator 4
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Robin Pittman (he/him)

I didn't follow the usual path, and though that was certainly a strange feeling - I think I am better for it. I have developed a broad skillset in the digital media creative field - in particular in the technical side, but I am very much a creative experimentalist. I love teaching and educating people about their strengths, and how to move forward. I follow a critical thinking - skeptical science based approach to life but also believe that creative thinking is one of those things that give life meaning and fills our hearts with purpose.

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I have many loves - science, technology, history, geography, architecture, music - a passion for all of them. Incorporating everything together is a real joy in life.

Creative Practice

I live at the intersection of imagination and systems. For me storytelling and simulation, and experimentation go together as one part of a whole. I work with narrative (interactive and non interactive), film, virtual production, game engines, generative AI, sound, development/coding, and compositing to create immersive, sometimes strange, and often thought-provoking pieces that explore the nature of consciousness, identity, interaction, and meaning.

Much of my recent work has focused on transmedia narratives, generative AI personalities and interactive world building (though my entire life world building and research into consistent world development and understand the universe fit a theme). I’m fascinated by how we create connections with digital characters and environments, and how those experiences challenge our assumptions about presence, selfhood, and the boundaries between human and machine.

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As someone with a background in both science, pedagogy and digital media, I approach creative work with equal parts analytical curiosity and playful experimentation. I use the tools I wish to teach -Unreal Engine or Unity, Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, AI text/image models, and more, not only to develop content, but to ask questions, model possibilities, and explore alternative ideas.

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Collaboration also plays a major role in my practice. Whether I’m working with students, faculty, or digital actors, I value the dialogue that emerges when creative minds push, pull, and build together, taking that experience and helping me gain a greater understanding of the human mind and its intricacies and the grounding it provides in my creativity (otherwise I would get lost in my head).

My work is both personal and speculative. It’s rooted in imagination, but built with real-world tools, and about realistic or at least consistent worlds. However, there are always elements of the surreal, dark, and creepy – that fit within my rather strange mind. It reflects the same values I bring to teaching - curiosity, openness, empathy, and a willingness to follow unexpected ideas where they lead.

Teaching & Creative philosophy

Aren't we all teachers? I've taught labs, guitar, drums, technical skills, multimedia production, even teaching, but some of the most memorable moments are those small things shared, where everyone learns something together, or we see the light turn on in someones eyes when they suddenly feel confidence.

Empty Physic classroom from the back of the room (at UFV)

Learning and creativity are our default conditions

​​I believe that learning and creativity are fundamental aspects of being human. As an educator in digital media and science, I view myself as a guide and collaborator, exploring the evolving landscape of creation and communication alongside my students.​ In my classroom, I strive to cultivate an inclusive environment that encourages experimentation, personal growth, and curiosity. I believe students learn best when they feel empowered to try new things, take risks, and discover their strengths—not just through success, but also through guided failure and reflection. I emphasize that failure isn't something to be feared; it's a natural part of learning, especially in creative work. I model this mindset in my own creative practice and invite students to share, critique, and iterate together.​ ​ Technology plays a central role in my teaching, not as a replacement for creativity, but as an expansion of it. I see no opposition between art and technology; they have always evolved together. In the digital media space, familiarity with tools like Unreal Engine, generative AI, programming, and video editing software is essential. I integrate these tools into the classroom to demonstrate possibilities and help students discover mediums that resonate with them. I believe in teaching not just the tools but also agility in adapting to new technologies.​ Having taught physics labs, coached faculty, and mentored creative students across disciplines, I recognize the importance of meeting learners where they are. My own educational journey was non-linear and unconventional, and I honor that diversity in my teaching. I understand that students enter the classroom with varied backgrounds, skills, motivations, and strengths. I view this diversity as an asset. Through mixed-level group work, peer mentorship, and individualized feedback, I encourage students to value their unique contributions and to stretch beyond their comfort zones at their own pace, while sharing their knowledge with peers.​ The values I aim to model are both creative and practical: experimentation, empathy, clarity, responsibility, and accountability. In my experience, students thrive when they feel seen, supported, and challenged. I don't expect perfection, but I do expect presence, engagement, and effort. I also recognize that students face challenges outside the classroom that may not be immediately apparent. It's important to work collaboratively with students to support them when needed. Whether they're creating a short film, building a virtual space, or exploring visual storytelling for the first time, I want my students to understand that the process matters as much as the outcome.

Current Learning and Initiatives

  • Game AIs

  • Generative AI

  • Electronics-VR-AI Hybridization

AI based game NPCs
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Currently I am fascinated between the cross-over between AI and game design and have been working with the convai (http://convai.com) plugin with Unreal Engine to add "life" to NPCs. Combining this with game play AIs (behavior trees and more), to build truly interactive experiences - especially in VR. Currently the personalities and memories of such AI characters are not convincing, but as the technology improves - I am fascinated to see where it goes.

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Cross over between physicsal world, AI, and VR through engineering
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I am also hoping to further my past experiments combing VR and the physical space - with electronics such as arduino and raspberry pi. I have dabbled in this area in the past and it can best be explained as sharing some properties of the Iron man helmet. Through in some AI and you have a primitive Jarvis.

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Generative AI exploration
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Finally - Much of my experimentation and personal research is geared to the constantly changing world of generative AI (and other types of AI). I am both fascinated in the progress - and a bit afraid - mostly how this affects the future of careers for the worse. There is a constant need for me to consider the dangers but also look at how it can help us expand our overal capabilities. As such I am both keeping an eye out and experimenting constantly with new AIs but also looking for and trying to education others of the risk factors and how to prepare for it.

© 2025 by travestyalpha (Robin Pittman). Powered and secured by Wix

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