The Erne Campus at South West College recently played host to an extraordinary event, bringing together the creative minds and innovative talents of the BA Honours Creative Media Arts students. This spectacular showcase of film and game design served as a testament to the students' dedication and hard work throughout their academic journey. The event, held on Wednesday night was made even more remarkable with the presence of distinguished guest speakers, Jude McCaffrey, Producer of renowned shows like "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire" and "Ireland's Smartest," and Liz Barron from industry-led skills body for the screen industries – film, television, animation and games, ScreenSkills.

The Erne Campus transformed into a mesmerizing world of creativity as it opened its doors to a myriad of awe-inspiring projects that showcased the students' boundless imagination and technical prowess. The event showcased an eclectic range of short films, game prototypes, and interactive installations, each a testament to the students' commitment to pushing boundaries and creating unique experiences.

Jude McCaffrey, a highly esteemed Producer in the entertainment industry, delivered an inspiring keynote speech that highlighted the importance of storytelling and innovation in film and game design. Drawing upon her vast experience in creating captivating content, McCaffrey offered invaluable insights and words of wisdom to the aspiring creators, emphasizing the power of imagination and the significance of fostering collaboration.

Exhibitors and Attendees discussing the work on show.
Exhibitors and Attendees discussing the work on show.

Joining McCaffrey was Liz Barron, an esteemed representative from ScreenSkills, an organization at the forefront of supporting and developing talent within the screen industries. Barron shared invaluable industry insights and highlighted the vast opportunities available to the emerging talents in the world of film and game design. Her words resonated deeply with the students, instilling them with renewed motivation and a clearer vision for their future careers.

Exhibitors and Attendees discussing the work on show.
Exhibitors and Attendees discussing the work on show.

The showcase was an immersive experience for attendees, with interactive displays allowing visitors to step into the students' imaginative worlds. From virtual reality game environments to augmented reality installations, the event captivated the audience, transporting them to alternate realities crafted by the talented creators. The students' technical proficiency, combined with their artistic sensibilities, left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Claire Fiddaman, Head of the School of Creative Arts, expressed immense pride in the students' accomplishments, stating, "The showcase was a true celebration of our students' dedication and creative talents. We are thrilled to witness their growth and the remarkable projects they have produced. The presence of industry veterans like Jude McCaffrey and Liz Barron further reinforced the immense potential of our students and the invaluable skills they have gained during their time at South West College."

This event served as a stepping stone for the BA Honours Creative Media Arts students, as they now set their sights on a bright future in the film and game design industries. With the support and guidance provided by Erne Campus and the valuable insights shared by Jude McCaffrey and Liz Barron, these talented individuals are ready to make their mark on the creative landscape.

For more information about the BA Honours Creative Media Arts program and upcoming events, please visit swc.ac.uk/visualmediaarts or contact kevin.mulveen@swc.ac.uk

The showcase was a true celebration of our students' dedication and creative talents. We are thrilled to witness their growth and the remarkable projects they have produced

Claire Fiddaman
Head of the School of Creative Arts

Interested in studying towards a career in the Creative and Visual Arts?