Amanda C May

Amanda Christine May is an interdisciplinary artist and designer working at the intersection of virtual production, game design, and digital media. Her work explores immersive world-building and visual storytelling, bridging physical and digital spaces through real-time technologies. She specializes in visual effects and environment design, creating narrative-driven, interactive experiences that combine technical workflows with conceptual development. Amanda’s practice emphasizes collaboration, experimentation, and innovative approaches to storytelling, supporting the creation of dynamic worlds that engage both creative and technical perspectives.

My work and teaching practice are rooted in the intersection of storytelling, technology, and design. As an interdisciplinary artist working across virtual production, game design, and visual effects, I am interested in how environments shape narrative and how digital spaces can be used to create immersive, meaningful experiences. I approach my work through world-building, combining environment design, visual storytelling, and real-time tools to construct spaces that engage both visually and conceptually.

This perspective directly informs my teaching philosophy. I believe students learn best through making, by engaging in hands-on, project-based processes that allow them to experiment, iterate, and develop their ideas from concept to completion. In the classroom, I guide students through structured creative workflows while encouraging them to take risks and explore their own artistic voice. I emphasize both technical skill and conceptual thinking, helping students understand not only how to create, but why they are making certain creative decisions.

My teaching also prioritizes adaptability and inclusivity. Students come from diverse backgrounds with varying levels of experience, and I work to meet them where they are by offering multiple approaches to problem-solving and creative development. I provide individualized feedback and support, creating an environment where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and learning collaboratively. I see my role as both an instructor and a mentor, someone who helps students navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop a sense of ownership over their work.

My experience in collaborative production environments, including film and game development, further shapes my approach. I emphasize the importance of teamwork, communication, and iteration, reflecting real-world creative pipelines. I encourage students to think beyond individual assignments and consider how their work functions within a larger system, preparing them for professional creative environments.

Ultimately, my goal as both an artist and educator is to support the development of thoughtful, skilled, and innovative creators. I aim to help students build strong technical foundations while also fostering curiosity, experimentation, and a deeper understanding of storytelling through space, image, and interaction.