Future Screens NI led a strong delegation to AHRC Creative Economy Conference Beyond 2019 in Edinburgh. The delegation consisted of representatives from Ulster, Queens, the Digital Catapult and local industry leaders Axial3D and Italic Pig reflected both the breadth and strength of the Creative Cluster in NI. Both Axial 3D and Italic Pig had secured showcases through a competitive process.
Axial 3D showed off their medical 3D printing solutions which have been used by surgeons which support pre-operative planning between surgeons and patients. The most notable of which is a 3D printed kidney which was created to show the operating surgeon where tumours were located. Axial 3D have developed a ground breaking approach which assists to doctors to physically see the location and impact of tumours. Axial 3D provide surgeons with an accurate model providing the surgeon with enhanced precision and planning before operating with life changing impacts for patients.
Italic Pig, Northern Ireland’s Game Studio of the Year showcased the Infinite Hotel. The Infinite Hotel was nominated for best immersive game at Raindance. It is a character-driven, vertical VR narrative adventure with the intention of creating a memorable and humorous experiences by combining the very best aspects of room space VR with a unique story and setting. The Infinite Hotel reflects the vision of Italic Pig which is to develop unique high quality games with the potential to transform the gaming industry. The Infinite Hotel is always a crowd pleaser and delegates reported being transfixed by both the story and humour.
The strength of Future Screens NI was recognised by Professor Andrew Chitty, Challenge Director, when he announced at Beyond that Future Screens NI is at the forefront of industry investment via the Industrial Strategy Programme. This places Future Screens NI at the centre of local economic growth and positions the Creative Industries as the new heavy industries within the region.