Simulation is the main technique that appeals to me. This is because as a 3D artist I use a computer to create virtual renditions of the real life objects. We can simulate artificial worlds using 3D software and game engines. Within these softwares there are even simulation tools that can mimic the qualities and movement of water, fire, wind, earthquakes, bullet ricochets, gravity physics, etc. (whatever you can think of).
So, this technique of simulation is already largely used as an art form. Computer games are art. 3D re-enactments of a meteor hitting the earth on the History Channel is art. Trees blowing in the wind inside a virtual reality space is art.
These simulations are helping with everyday tasks and careers. Doctors are doing virtual simulations of surgeries. Construction workers are doing virtual training of equipment. The military is even training for combat using simulations.
My goal is to get so good at mimicking real life situations in the virtual world that they become indistinguishable from the real thing. Technology will keeping getting better in game engines like Unity and Unreal, as well as special effects softwares like Houdini, and 3D softwares like Blender, Maya, Cinema4D, etc.