About
Brian Beams is a multimedia artist living in San Jose, California. His work explores novel uses of virtual, augmented and mixed reality to comment on the relationship between human experience and technology, exploring sublime imagery through virtual processes. He has worked as an art director for video games and music videos, and his work has been shown in international conferences and exhibitions, including venues such as Siggraph, SXSW and San Luis Obispo Museum of Art. Brian has taught digital art and design classes at Santa Clara University, which he chronicled in a chapter for the book “Ethical Considerations of Virtual Reality in the College Classroom” in 2023. His chapter outlines the design methods and student outcomes with a focus on intersecting art and sustainability.
In 2024 published an edited volume titled “Past and Future Presence” which explores approaches for implementing XR technology in Humanities and Art Education.
Technical Art + Design
Brian has a Bachelor of Science in computer visualization and a Master of Fine Arts degree. He combines technical proficiency in a variety of software and tools with an artist's sensibilities in my professional work. His experience as an art director and professional 3D artist has made him a creative problem solver that can learn new software quickly and with ease.
Leadership + Management
Brian has worked as a program and project manager, overseeing production of technical projects and managing direct reports to bring projects to completion. He has a Masters of Business Administration with an emphasis on leading impactful teams, Project Manager Professional (PMP) Certification, expertise in budgeting, and experience in proposal development.
Research + Publication
Brian is a thought leader in the field of XR, having recently published an Edited Volume on XR technology as well as other studies, which you can find on his Google Scholar profile. He is interested in novel applications of technology in a variety of fields, primarily arts, humanities and sustainability.