From Concept to Click: A Student’s Path in Digital Storytelling
The University of Plymouth proudly hosted Girmit by Nutkhut, a poignant cinematic piece exploring the experiences of indentured Indian labourers during British colonial rule. This event was part of the Future Screens Initiative led by the university in collaboration with i-DAT (Mike Phillips) and The Bridge, reflecting the institution’s commitment to showcasing diverse narratives through art and technology.
The screening followed an exciting day of creative exploration as part of the Arts Council England-funded Holst Spaceship Earth project, led by James Edward Marks of PlayLa.bZ. This project, celebrating the 150th anniversary of composer Gustav Holst, brought together an inspiring team including JEM, Eleanor Dare, Leon Trimble, Dinesh Patel, Lorna Inman, and Ajay Chhabra.
The day began with a Hotwire workshop led by Andy Prior for MA Experience Design and MA Games students. This Open Research Lab encouraged playful experimentation with creative technology, blending art, DIY/DIT/DIWO (Doing it Together/With Others), and hacking in a celebration of ingenuity and collaboration. The immersive day culminated in the fulldome Immersive Vision Theatre with works inspired by Holst’s music, serving as both an ode to the planets and a call for universal harmony.
Screening Girmit within this context added depth to the event.
Dr. Dylan Yamada Rice reflected,
“This blending of historical narratives with cutting-edge technology demonstrates the power of art to connect us with our past while inspiring new futures.”
James Edward Marks highlighted the spirit of collaboration, stating,
“Nothing can happen on its own. Collaboration is a fundamental human need—it’s how we create, innovate, and imagine beyond our individual limitations.”
Nutkhut’s evocative storytelling reminded audiences of the importance of preserving histories and promoting understanding through innovative mediums. This fusion of art, history, and technology exemplified the transformative potential of creative collaborations at the University of Plymouth.