Troy Ruffels

Dr. Troy Ruffels is a Lecturer in the School of Creative Arts and Media at the University of Tasmania, specializing in visual arts, photography, and place-based research. He holds a PhD from the Tasmanian School of Art (2003), a PGDip from Glasgow School of Art (2001), and BFA degrees from the Tasmanian School of Art (1994, 1996). His research explores how environment and atmosphere shape human perception, emphasizing practice-led methodologies. Ruffels has been Head of Photomedia, Honours Coordinator, and contributed to course development, mentoring over 70 students. He is an award-winning artist with exhibitions globally, including major commissions like the 2021 HIVE Cultural Precinct project. His work investigates Tasmania’s landscapes, ecology, and the interplay between human experience and natural phenomena. Awards include the 2005 Burnie Art Prize and multiple grants from Arts Tasmania and Australia Council. Ruffels actively advocates for contemporary art through judging roles and public speaking, and co-founded Sawtooth ARI in Launceston. His current research focuses on ‘weathering’ as a metaphor for environmental and psychological transformation.

• Education:
  • PhD, Tasmanian School of Art (2003)
  • PGDip, Glasgow School of Art (2001)
  • BFA (Hons), Tasmanian School of Art (1996)
  • BFA, Tasmanian School of Art (1994)
• Research Interests:
  • Place-based aesthetics and environmental perception
  • Photography and digital imaging techniques
  • Ecological and atmospheric representation
  • Tasmanian cultural identity
• Awards & Commissions:
  • HIVE Cultural Precinct Commission (2021)
  • Biennale of Australian Art Commission (2018)
  • Burnie Art Prize, Major Award (2005)
• Service & Advocacy:
  • Founding Chair, Sawtooth ARI (Launceston)
  • Judge for national art prizes
  • Panel member for university course development