https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/11481 2026-07-07T21:19:37Z 2026-07-07T21:19:37Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147395 2026-06-15T08:43:48Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Communication through a combination of art and poetry Abstract: This project dissertation investigates how the combination of visual art and poetry can enhance communication and emotional expression. Motivated by my personal passion for both painting and writing, the research aims to demonstrate that pairing these two artistic forms creates a powerful and clear communicative experience. The study begins with a literature review that examines the dynamic relationship between poetry and visual art, including the psychological and cognitive effects of imagery, colour, and nonverbal cues. It explores the concept of ekphrastic poetry – where poets respond to visual art – and the narrative power of illustration, drawing on works by key scholars and examples from notable artists and poets. The practical component consists of a creative project: a book pairing original paintings with thematically linked poems, reflecting personal experiences and emotions. This is supplemented by interviews with local artists working at the intersection of art and poetry, whose insights enrich the understanding of the creative process. A reflective journal documents the evolution of the project, detailing inspirations, techniques, and challenges encountered. Findings from the research and inferences of the project suggest that the interplay between visual and verbal media deepens audience engagement, clarifies meaning, and evokes stronger emotional responses. The dissertation concludes that integrating art and poetry not only enhances the communicative power of each medium but also fosters richer, more immersive experiences for both creator and viewer. This project-led inquiry highlights the value of interdisciplinary approaches in contemporary artistic expression. Description: B.Comms. (Hons)(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147394 2026-06-15T08:41:27Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Framing FoMO : exploring FoMO amongst generation Z through portraiture Abstract: This dissertation explores the impact of the Fear of Missing Out [FoMO] on Generation Z’s mental health, social connections, self-perception, self-esteem, and overall well-being. This study looks at how portraiture photography can be used to convey such FoMO phenomenon, highlighting the importance of photography as a powerful visual medium. By combining survey research with photography, this study reveals common FoMO triggers and experiences of Generation Z, as well as how this is sometimes linked to social media. The findings suggest that FoMO significantly affects the mental well-being of this generation and influences their social interactions and self-image. Description: B.Comms. (Hons)(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147393 2026-06-15T08:36:54Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Exploring racial bias through the goblin race in Baldur’s Gate 3 Abstract: The idea of homogenous races that incorporate traits from real groups of people and portrays them negatively to audiences is one that has occurred in several media before this such as The Hobbit or Harry Potter. However, in the video game Baldur’s Gate 3, there is conflicting messaging when the game makes attempts to acknowledge racial issues and yet still chooses to have goblins be a unified race with the same negative beliefs and attitudes. A semiotic and textual analysis was held to analyse the goblin race, using the relevant literature related to race and the fantasy genre as a basis. This was done to form a connection between the handling of the race and the wider racial issues that have become standard within the fantasy genre. In doing so, it became evident that the perceptions held about goblins are ones that reflect western colonialist perspectives held about minority racial groups, considered to be a racial “Other”. There is a level of importance to bringing about discussions and criticism to these issues. Despite goblins being a fantasy race, the messages passed through them can still influence players. Calling attention to this allows for more mindful approaches to the subject of race and prevents further spreading of harmful racial ideologies that can then harm real people. Description: B.Comms. (Hons)(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147392 2026-06-15T08:34:35Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: A study of branding representation of female athletes in motorsport Abstract: This dissertation explores the branding representation of female athletes in the traditionally male-dominated arena of motorsport. Guided by the critical feminist theory, the study examines how gender influences branding, media portrayal, and sponsorship opportunities for women in the sport. A qualitative methodology based on semi-structured interviews with both male and female participants involved in motorsport or branding in Malta and internationally is used. The research sheds light on the lived experiences and strategic branding efforts of female drivers. The findings highlight the significant gender-based challenges that persist in motorsport branding, including underrepresentation, stereotyping, and oversexualisation. However, the study also identifies a notable historic shift in the hegemonic masculine culture that has long dominated the sport. An increasingly inclusive trend is emerging in which female athletes are being represented and branded as legitimate, capable competitors rather than being reduced to aesthetic or gendered stereotypes. This positive evolution is especially visible at the international level and among high-profile teams and campaigns. Nevertheless, the research reveals that outdated attitudes still persist, particularly in smaller local club racing scenes where traditional norms remain more entrenched. Female athletes continue to face systemic barriers and are often expected to “prove themselves” beyond their male counterparts. Yet, the growing involvement of young girls in grassroots motorsport, coupled with the rise of empowered female role models and self-directed branding via social media, points to a promising future. The study concludes that while the road to equity is ongoing, the progress made so far is significant, and the trajectory is increasingly hopeful for a more balanced and inclusive motorsport environment. Description: B.Comms. (Hons)(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z