https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/1709 2026-04-15T13:45:41Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142847 Title: Dragons over the world history : an artistic research on dragon culture Abstract: From the poisonous, fire-breathing lizards that threatens the kingdom, to the mysterious, elegant flying serpent that are worshipped for blessings, dragons, the mythological creature, has long been a popular subject featured in worldwide regions, evoking discussions from artists, historians, and even psychologists. How are dragons’ designs diversifying in different eras and regions, and how might these design choices reflect the society it belongs to? This research project, conducted through in-depth research, involving extensive reading on history, religions and regional customs, along with a visit to the Japanese dragon shrine, focuses on the evolving and diversifying dragon culture, approaches numerous civilizations through the lens of dragons. While the practical section of this project is an ongoing process, this dissertation presents a documentation of the experimentation with media and compositions. Description: BFA (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142845 Title: A study on visual styles : exploring aesthetic choices in 3D animation Abstract: This dissertation explores the construction and evolution of visual styles in 3D animation through a practice-based research methodology. It examines aesthetic choices, such as lighting, texture, composition, and colour. These choices are shaped not only by artistic intent but also by technological affordances, production workflows, and broader industry trends. Anchored in theories of media aesthetics, realism, and digital culture, the study traces the trajectory of 3D animation from early photorealistic ambitions to the recent resurgence of stylised, genre-driven visual languages. The research also investigates the interplay between realism and stylisation, highlighting the expressive potential of visual abstraction in conveying narrative tone and emotional depth. Central to the project is the creation of an original short 3D animated film, which functions both as an artistic artefact and a site of inquiry. Employing reflective journaling, visual analysis, and intertextual referencing, the project engages with both personal experience and professional discourse, positioning style as a dialogic space between form, meaning, and affect. By integrating theoretical frameworks with practical experimentation in Blender, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how 3D animation operates as a medium of both visual expression and cultural commentary. Description: BFA (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142839 Title: Immersive storytelling : a VR escape room exploring Maltese mythology Abstract: Mythological stories are important cultural artefacts that transmit a society's beliefs, values and traditions across generations (Mifsud, 2023). Tales in Malta about the existence of ancient giants and mythical creatures are connected to the islands' historical sites (Attard, 2013; Mifsud, 2014). This dissertation explores the use of Virtual Reality (VR) to promote and protect Maltese traditions through an immersive escape room experience. The project combines VR technology and educational game design to create an interactive learning environment, blending gameplay with historical and cultural storytelling. Developed in Unity (v2021.3.45f1), the VR escape room immerses players in Maltese mythology, encouraging them to solve puzzles and uncover ancient legends. Drawing on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory (Dewey, 1938; Kolb, 1984) and Constructivism (Piaget, 1936; Vygotsky, 1978), it emphasises active participation and reflection, while gamification principles (Marougkas et al., 2023; Silva et al., 2022) boost engagement and motivation. The narrative and puzzle design draw primarily on the folktale collections of Emmanuel Magri, whose early ethnographic work laid the foundation for later researchers, integrating elements of Maltese mythology to ensure cultural authenticity. A practice-led methodology guided the development process, with iterative self-testing informing design decisions. This approach highlights how immersive environments can offer meaningful and culturally resonant experiences that engage players with local mythology in new and imaginative ways. Description: BFA (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142838 Title: WANDER : a study of change to coming-of-age through graphic storytelling Abstract: This research explores the researcher’s coming-of-age journey through the creation of a graphic novel, combining theory with practice-based methods to examine how visual storytelling communicates change, maturity, and self-discovery. Through reflective journaling, artistic experimentation, and the study of other artists' works, the novel’s development becomes both a personal and creative process. The narrative follows a protagonist navigating growth, shaped by memories and past experiences. Flashbacks and evolving character designs subtly mark the passage of time, reinforcing how maturity emerges through reflection and learning. The novel captures the fleeting nature of youth and the emotions tied to revisiting the past, emphasizing that change is central to self-discovery and that growth takes many forms. By engaging with both personal and universal themes, the work invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of growing up. Ultimately, this research highlights the emotional power of visual storytelling in evoking nostalgia and deepening our understanding of how we learn from the past. Description: BFA (Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z