CRAIG CALDWELL

Craig Caldwell is a Professor in the Department of Film & Media Arts at the University of Utah and serves as a USTAR Professor. He is also an Adjunct Professor in the School of Computing (2011–2016). He co-founded the Master’s in Games Program within the Entertainment Arts & Engineering at the University of Utah. Caldwell has extensive industry experience, including roles as Head of Creative Training at Electronic Arts (Tiburon Studio) and 3D Technology Specialist at Walt Disney Feature Animation, contributing to films like Mulan, Tarzan, and Bolt. Academically, he previously led the largest film school in Australia at Griffith University and chaired the Media Arts Department at the University of Arizona.

Research Interests: Focus on graphics, augmented reality, game design, virtual reality, and storytelling in media. His book, Story Structure and Development: A Guide for Animators, VFX Artists, Game Designers, and Virtual Reality (CRC Press), underscores his expertise in narrative frameworks for digital media.

Presentations & Engagement: Regular presenter at global conferences including SIGGRAPH (2014–2023), FMX (2013–2024), Sundance, and Comic-Con. His work bridges academic research with industry applications in animation and interactive media.

Education:

• BFA in Art, Florida Southern College, 1972
• MFA in Art, University of Florida, 1974
• PhD in Advanced Computing Center for Art and Design, Ohio State University, 1989

Labs/Teams: Co-founder of the Games Program, fostering interdisciplinary education in entertainment arts and engineering.