This year’s work has been produced in shadow of AI’s rise and its threat to creative practice from text to image/moving image to replacing voice-over artists, script-writers and musicians. While software companies have been quick to add AI capabilities to their programmes creatives are endeavoring to find the balance between authentic analogue production and the hyper-real world of these new technologies. The student’s work has been made in the context of this new landscape; from Ben Clarke Grose’s nostalgic throwback to the pre-internet world of 90s table top games, Liz Jenkin’s use of infrared technology to capture representations of loss, Gordon Cookson’s straight observations of the natural world hidden beneath our feet to Claudius Cooper’s introspective look at his own life and the influences that have affected his personal and creative growth, from real life to the digital realm.
The work on show at this year’s exhibition clearly demonstrates the range of creativity and media skills the students have gained through the three years of their studies at Truro and Penwith College. They have developed concepts and ideas that will be key for creative businesses throughout Cornwall or to develop their own work as creative media practitioners, adding to the rich cultural life of Cornwall and beyond.
The BA (Hons) Applied Media has been set up to explore a range of different media skills in order to develop a distinct creative media practice. This might include areas such as photographic practice, film making, print publications or graphic media. The philosophy of the programme is underpinned by the concept of 360 Degree Media– this approach ensures that students are fully equipped for the21st century media industry upon graduation. Due to the convergence of media practices and great technological changes within the industry, the course aims to bring together skills and methods of media production in relation to social, cultural, industrial, commercial and promotional environments.
The structure of the course helps students to balance an understanding of specialist knowledge and a wider awareness of a range media industries. Graduates from the course have subsequently become freelancers, while others have joined local creative agencies or marketing departments. Previous students have set up video production companies, a sound engineering studio, a magazine design company, and a wedding photography business while others are producing work for several print and web publications around Cornwall. Other career options include content creator, social media management, self-shooting director/producer, marketing, magazine design, print and web design and education.
https://fourdegreeshow2024.wordpress.com/
Project title: Realms of Loss
In her project, Liz delves into the multifaceted theme of loss through the captivating lens of infrared photography. From the profound ache of losing a loved one to the poignant erosion of heritage and culture, she explores diverse dimensions of loss.
Infrared photography offers a transformative view, revealing unseen dimensions in our surroundings. The ethereal quality of infrared captures the intangible nature of loss, adding depth and emotion to Liz’s visual narratives. Through carefully composed prints, the exhibition invites viewers to contemplate these themes and delve deeper into personal and collective experiences of loss.
BIOGRAPHY
Liz is deeply interested in alternative photographic processes, embracing both digital and analogue techniques. Her recent projects include cyanotypes for a local plastic recycling company and infrared photos of iconic locations around Cornwall. Being neurodivergent, Liz channels her unique perspective and creativity into crafting storytelling images focused on themes of identity and diversity.
Contact: email lizjenkin@outlook.com
Instagram: @infraredcornwall
web: lizjenkin.wixsite.com/infraredcornwall
BEN CLARKE-GROSE
Project title: Unite Lords of the Lands
Ben designed a retro styled video/tv advertisement based on his self-created game called Unite Lords of the Land. Inspired by tabletop games such as Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer. He created this advert to remind himself of a kind of nostalgia driven by his personal connections to this period. He created this game and advert to invoke a sense of nostalgia for the 90’s.
It is interesting to compare the current advertising of these genres of games which now apply CGI with well known narratives. Alongside the game Ben has created an authentic 90’s advert. His intention is to motivate others to play the game physically and mentally, thereby encouraging the player to stimulate their own imagination rather than relying on computer graphics in a fantasy setting.
Miniatures games are a form of tabletop game which prominently features the use of miniature models or figures. The modern genre has expanded to include fantasy and science-fiction settings, often using intricately-detailed and painted miniature figures.
BIOGRAPHY
Ben grew up in the remote coastal village of Portscatho. Raised by his hard-working grandparents, Ben has taken influences from both of their personalities - his traditional, anti-technology Grandfather and his more intrepid Nan who’s always willing to give the latest gadget a go! This blend of nostalgic tradition with contemporary approaches is reflected in his latest project.
Ben has developed an interest in creating ‘Things’, from designing card games, board games, posters, and artwork; Ben loves to share his mindscape with colourful imagery, characters and inspiration.
Contact: web: clarkeben2000.wixsite.com/ben-clarke-grose-cre
Example paint schemes for the game models.
