Michael Boylan
Senior Lecturer, Games
I began my career as a traditionally trained hand-drawn animator, completing Disney’s three-year professional animation programme in 1993. Following this, I worked across several animation studios, developing a strong foundation in visual storytelling and character performance. However, my passion has always been at the intersection of art and technology, and I consider Games to be the perfect medium to satisfy these interests.
To pursue this passion, I returned to education in 1998 and enrolled on one of Europe’s first game production programmes, Ludo, in Dublin. Graduating at the top of my class, I went on to join a game development studio creating titles for Sony’s groundbreaking PlayStation console. Working alongside a talented team of developers, I refined my skills in 3D animation, 3D modelling, and game design, laying the foundations for a career that would span more than two decades.
Over the course of my 20+ years in the games industry, I have contributed to numerous projects across console, PC, mobile, and emerging technologies. My experience includes work on internationally recognised brands such as Disney and the James Bond franchise, with roles ranging from Animator and Character Artist through to Lead Character Artist.
As a freelancer, I also worked on a large-scale virtual reality project for Airbus, helping to coordinate teams, train staff, and oversee aspects of day-to-day production. Developed during the early stages of widespread industrial VR adoption, the project was highly regarded by Airbus and helped showcase innovative approaches to public engagement and immersive technology.
My enthusiasm for technology, game art, and creative production, combined with a passion for mentoring and developing others, ultimately led me to Falmouth University, where I am now a Senior Lecturer in Games. I teach game art pipelines, industry-standard software, and production workflows, drawing upon my professional experience to help students bridge the gap between education and industry. Falmouth provides an inspiring environment where technology, creativity, and research converge, and I am particularly passionate about leading game development teams and supporting students as they develop their own creative and professional identities.
