A project has been launched to mark the Centenary with interactive 21st century technology offering a ‘thought-provoking modern view’ of the First World War.
England’s creative software developers are being invited to create a game, app or browser content tool shedding new light on how the modern world has been shaped by the events of 1914-18.
Up to £80,000 in funding will be available to the winning company to design, create and publish a mobile app, game or browser content tool for launch in 2016, the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.
The project has been co-commissioned by industry body Creative England and 14-18 NOW, the UK’s cultural programme accompanying the Centenary.
Creative England explains: “Whether it’s an app offering a player an insight into life in the trenches, or a rich interactive storytelling experience, we want to hear ideas that offer a thought-provoking modern view of the First World War while exploring the wider implications of the impact of war today.”
Jim Farmery, Director of Regional partnerships at Creative England, said: “This partnership with 14-18 NOW is the perfect opportunity to promote our thriving regional digital talent. The project is a wonderful commemorative endeavour that will inspire both creative industries and wider society to consider wartime events in a new light.”
Innovators
To be eligible for the commission, lead companies must be based in the English regions outside Greater London.
They must also collaborate with another art form in the making of the product. For example, games developers may look to a musician to score their game, a visual artist to design environments or a writer to creative a narrative.
As 2016 approaches, 14-18 NOW is preparing its second major programme of cultural commissions to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.
Director Jenny Waldman said: “14-18 NOW is commissioning some of the most talented UK and International artists to mark the centenary of the First World War.
“This interactive content commission in particular offers an opportunity for one of our best gaming innovators to create an ambitious and imaginative response to the themes of the First World War – a war whose impact is still felt around the world today.”
The deadline for applications is midnight on Friday September 18th 2015.
For the full guidelines and how to apply, go to the Creative England website.
‘Creative England’ is a not-for-profit organisation whose goals are to support and invest in creative ideas, talent and businesses in film, TV, games and digital media.
Source: Creative England
Images: Centenary News
Posted by: Peter Alhadeff, Centenary News