At the beginning of 2023 the Basically Good Media Lab had to say goodbye to Director Maria Lantin, who had been at the helm of the BGML since 2009. Her journey in the research center has been one of innovation, creativity, and unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of immersive media and interaction. She shepherded numerous projects and initiatives through the BGML, always with grace, compassion and curiosity. Through her kindness and generosity, the BGML became a haven for many faculty and student researchers seeking a space of openness and experimentation.
Maria is an independent artist, computer scientist, thinker, and creative coder whose passion for exploring space and movement—both physical and metaphorical—has been the driving force behind her remarkable body of work. Throughout her tenure, Maria ceaselessly scanned the technological horizon, seeking out trends in human fascination and exploring the profound “why” behind our collective attention. She shepherded numerous projects and initiatives through the BGML, always with grace, compassion and curiosity. Through her kindness and generosity, the BGML became a haven for many faculty and student researchers seeking a space of openness and experimentation.
With a background spanning a BSc and PhD in Computing Science to groundbreaking experiences in animation and pioneering roles at institutions like Emily Carr University and the Banff New Media Institute’s Advanced Art and Technology labs, her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
Her sixteen-year tenure at Emily Carr University, where she held various leadership roles, including Director of Intersections Digital Studios (2010) and Director of Research (2012-2015) speaks volumes about her profound impact on the intersection of technology and creativity at the institute.
Her choice of name for the Basically Good Media Lab speaks about her vision of how technologies can be at the heart of research while contributing to the greater good. As Maria embarks on the next chapter of her journey, the Basically Good Media Lab extends its deepest gratitude for her visionary leadership.
With Gratitude and Love,
Basically Good Media Lab
