Community Connections with ICONIC
Creativity, Community, and Cutting-Edge Innovation
At Feral we love getting stuck into projects that champion creativity, community, and cutting-edge innovation. That’s why we were thrilled to work with the University of Plymouth on the ICONIC project. ICONIC, which stands for Intergenerational Co-design of Novel Technologies in Coastal Communities, is an EPSRC-funded research initiative led by the university’s Centre for Health Technology. It tackles an important challenge: how to bridge the digital divide in rural and coastal areas, especially for older adults and young people.
What Was Our Mission?
To produce two short films showcasing ICONIC’s incredible work and its potential legacy. Over several days of filming, we captured the heart of this research through workshops, interviews, and inspiring moments. We started at two ICONIC participant workshops, each offering a unique glimpse into the project’s creative research process.
Workshop 1: Social Games
At the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, ICONIC participants and researchers were hard at work developing a social game. Designed in collaboration with the Ocean Conservation Trust’s Blue Meadows Team, the game focuses on the preservation of seagrass—an ecological treasure in the South West. We filmed participants exploring this playful yet purposeful way to learn about and protect the local environment.
Workshop 2: Extended Reality (XR)
Next, we headed to the stunning National Trust Cotehele estate, where the focus was on extended reality. Here, ICONIC researchers and participants co-designed an immersive virtual experience of Cotehele’s Great Hall. It’s a fascinating blend of heritage and technology, opening up exciting ways to explore historical spaces.
During the project, the ICONIC research team has also explored and developed two more exciting technologies: Underwater Telepresence and Voice AI for Digital Inclusion.
Underwater Telepresence
Underwater telepresence has sought to open up access to marine life without the need for diving. Using a 360-degree camera at the National Marine Aquarium, participants immersed themselves in vibrant underwater ecosystems via VR headsets. Workshops highlighted its potential for environmental education and community engagement, with underwater drones adding exciting possibilities for live telepresence experiences.
Voice AI for Digital Inclusion
Voice AI focused on connecting older adults to health and community resources via telephone, bypassing the need for broadband. This innovation, developed to support social prescribing, helps combat digital exclusion and isolation in rural areas. Workshops in Cornwall refined the technology, making it simple and intuitive for those with limited access to social care.
ICONIC Review: Dementia Health Technologies Conference
Our journey wrapped up at the ICONIC Review and Dementia Health Technologies Conference, held at the University of Plymouth. The event brought together key stakeholders including industry representatives, partner organisations, academics, and end users to celebrate the project’s progress and discuss its future potential. We filmed engaging keynotes discussions about how these technologies could revolutionise connections in coastal communities.
Why We Loved This Project
The project embodies so many things we value: creativity, inclusivity, and innovation. From the playful energy of the social games to the awe-inspiring potential of extended reality, every moment we captured told a story of collaboration and positive change. We’re proud to have played a role in sharing the ICONIC project’s achievements and ambitions. Huge thanks to the University of Plymouth and all the amazing participants who welcomed us into their workshops and conference.
The ICONIC Testimonial Film on Vimeo
The ICONIC Legacy Film on Vimeo
“Thank you for working with us on these, we’re so pleased with the final films and your work in capturing our project and conference which will be a great asset to the legacy of the project.” said Lauren Tenn, ICONIC Media Lead, University of Plymouth.