Alan Kwan

Alan Kwan is an Assistant Professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) in the Department of Film, Video, New Media, and Animation. He holds a BA from City University of Hong Kong (2012) and an MSc from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2016).

His research focuses on exploring real-time 3D technologies as an art form, blending game engines like Unity/Unreal with experimental aesthetics. He investigates cinematic interactivity, hybrid cinematography, and DIY approaches to challenge conventional game paradigms. His acclaimed project Scent (2017-2025) is a sensory cinematic game where players embody a dog navigating a war-torn city, emphasizing emotional contemplation over narrative resolution.

Notable exhibitions include Ars Electronica Festival, ZKM Center for Art and Media, and Science Gallery Dublin. His work is part of M+ Museum's permanent collection.

• Honorary Mention Award, Prix Ars Electronica 2021
• Excellence in Innovation Award, indiePlay China 2021
• First Prize, MIT Schnitzer Prize

He teaches courses like Real-Time 3D and Experimental Technology Lab for 3D Animation, emphasizing technical experimentation and poetic expression through emerging technologies.