Foyle Film Festival in Derry Spotlights AR, VR, and Motion Capture Through Adventures in Storytelling
Nerve Centre in Derry is set to host Adventures in Storytelling, a groundbreaking event showcasing the latest advancements in immersive arts. Taking place on 22 November 2024, this free, day-long programme is part of the Foyle Film Festival and supported by Ulster University.
The event, co-curated by Immersive Arts UK and Foyle Film Festival, celebrates innovative storytelling technologies, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), motion capture, and virtual production. Designed for artists, technologists, and creatives of all levels, it offers an inspiring platform to explore cutting-edge tools, learn about transformative projects, and engage with leaders in the field.
Exploring the Future of Storytelling
Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a hub for creative innovation is underscored by events like Adventures in Storytelling. The programme delves into emerging trends, from virtual production in filmmaking to XR-driven digital narratives, promising attendees an enriching experience.
Key sessions include:
- Virtual Production: The Future of Storytelling with Donal Phillips from Queen’s University Belfast, offering insights into how this technology is revolutionising the creative process.
- Innovative Motion Capture and AR in Storytelling, featuring c21 Theatre Company, Aura Digital Studios, and Deaf artist Paula Clarke, showcasing a pioneering British Sign Language (BSL) project using motion capture gloves.
- Exploring XR and Digital Art, led by Richard Davis of Belfast’s Digital Arts Studios, providing hands-on exposure to tools like Blender and Unreal Engine.
Dr. Victoria McCollum of Ulster University highlights the event’s collaborative essence:
“Our partnerships with Nerve Centre and Foyle Film Festival foster innovation, strengthen talent pipelines, and advance immersive storytelling technologies in Northern Ireland.”
Driving Local and Global Innovation
Adventures in Storytelling is part of the Immersive Arts UK initiative, supported by £3.6 million in funding to boost creative industries. Colm O’Donnell, Immersive Arts Producer at Nerve Centre, emphasizes its significance:
“This event not only celebrates the exceptional work being done here but also sets the stage for future breakthroughs in how art is created and experienced.”
Event Details
Adventures in Storytelling will run from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm at Nerve Centre, Derry, with highlights including:
- 10:45 am: Exploring XR and Digital Art – Demos by Digital Arts Studios
- 11:30 am: Virtual Production – Insights with Donal Phillips
- 2:30 pm: Motion Capture and AR in Storytelling – Inclusive storytelling projects
Foyle Film Festival’s Industry Programmer, Eavan King, adds:
“This collaboration showcases how cutting-edge technology is reshaping storytelling, creating opportunities to share ideas and forge connections in the immersive production industry.”
Adventures in Storytelling reflects Northern Ireland’s leadership in creative innovation, inviting participants to discover the transformative potential of immersive arts.