DkIT film students were recently recognised for their creative outputs at the First Frame event at the Dublin International Film Festival.
Two productions by film students were named as winners, with Art on Art winning across three categories, including Best Documentary, Best Editing and Best Overall Film from the Student Jury.
This documentary follows the journeys of Black Irish artists Samuel Pierre, F3miii, and the duo Negro Impacto, exploring how their experiences have shaped their music and ambitions.
Through their stories, the film highlights resilience, representation, and the importance of empowering young Black people in Ireland to express themselves boldly and pursue their passions without fear. The crew includes Niall O'Shea, Elizabeth Ibiyemi, Jack McBride, Tadhg Seery-White and Cathal Mallon.
Director Elizabeth Ibiyemi said
“Getting three awards from the Student Jury at First Frames was amazing! It means so much that my peers are seeing the impact and message we were trying to spread through our short doc. The experience was so eye opening and having people watch your work and uplift it is a reminder that your audience exists and is rooting for you!”
Ode to Noise also won Best Experimental Film. The film delves into the world of harsh noise—both as sound and as philosophy. It unfolds as an ode, a passage of love, and an intimate exploration of the genre through the guiding principles of Submission, Expression, and Rejection.
Now in its eighth year, The First Frame initiative brings together students from over 50 film courses, universities, and further education institutions from around Ireland to view a curated selection of student films in competition.
Prizes are awarded to the top films in each category - fiction, documentary, experimental, and animation - and the screenings provide excellent opportunities for course leaders and students alike to network with their peers as part of a national film event. Students are also given the opportunity to hear from industry professionals in workshops held alongside the screenings of their work.
DKIT's Lifelong Learning Centre co-ordinates over eighty part-time and Springboard courses. These courses are particularly suitable for those who wish to study new topics and course areas, update their professional skills or add to their qualifications. Courses at Dundalk IT are offered in the areas of Business, Humanities, Languages, Engineering, Informatics, Creative Arts, Health and Science.
