Institute of Art Design + Technology Dún Laoghaire
Ireland’s campus for the Creative Industries

Ciara Jennings 

BA [Hons] 3D Design Modelmaking + Digital Art

Hi, there! I'm a passionate artist with a focus on model making and game design, striving to carve my path in the entertainment industry. My journey began with an enriching internship at Ardmore Studios, where I contributed to the production of the 2024 paramount film, 'Abigail'. With this experience and a final project focusing on game design, I'm fueled with excitement to dive deeper into game development. My passion for world and character creation started in childhood while playing games with my brother, inspiring me to create similar experiences. I'm eager to apply these skills and push my creative boundaries further. Let's create something amazing together!

Marson Maheam; Will Gumbo find his way home?

Step into the shoes of an extraterrestrial protagonist and embark on an unforgettable adventure in a children's survivalist video game. As you navigate through vast open-world environments following a crash landing on Earth, you'll encounter a myriad of challenges and obstacles. Your primary objective? To collect vital materials necessary for repairing your spacecraft and ultimately returning home. Inspired by timeless classics such as 'Mars Attacks' and cherished video games from the past, this project reimagines the portrayal of extraterrestrial characters, injecting new life and excitement into the gaming experience. With each step you take, you'll be drawn deeper into a world filled with intrigue, mystery, and nostalgia. But it's not just about exploration and discovery. Along the way, you'll need to hone your problem-solving skills, exercise strategic thinking, and master the art of resource management to overcome the hurdles that lie in your path. Get ready to immerse yourself in a captivating journey that promises thrills, challenges, and endless opportunities for adventure.



Resilience, Representation and Reclamation: Unravelling the Tapestry of New Orleans' Spiritual Legacy and Cultural Impact.

Voodoo has emerged as a symbol of New Orleans' cultural identity, yet its portrayal in
mainstream media, largely influenced by Western perspectives, has been fraught with
inaccuracies. These misrepresentations, stemming from a predominantly white male
viewpoint, have had enduring repercussions on the city's cultural landscape. This thesis
explores the origins of these misconceptions and examines their lasting impact on the
community. The narrative begins by unravelling the transatlantic slave trade's historical
crucible, where enslaved Africans showcased remarkable resilience in shaping a
distinctive spiritual practice that became an integral facet of New Orleans' cultural
landscape. This thesis critically examines mainstream media's problematic
representations of New Orleans Voodoo, highlighting the resultant widespread
misconceptions and urging for a more informed portrayal. It then explores the
multifaceted impact of cultural acceptance and exploitation of Voodoo within New
Orleans, shedding light on both positive and negative consequences for the city's
cultural landscape. From shaping traditions and festivals to influencing art, music, and
architecture, Voodoo serves as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, connecting
residents to their roots. While cultural tourism thrives, economic opportunities emerge,
creating a delicate balance between cultural appreciation and potential exploitation.
This thesis underscores the city's ability to leverage Voodoo's interest for economic and
cultural benefits yet advocates for a thoughtful and respectful approach to safeguard its
authenticity.