Computer Arts and Technology
Jake Montanarini is a Lecturer and Industry Liaison for Games Art and Design at Norwich University of the Arts. As a practicing Games Designer, Jake uses games as a creative solution for specific challenges of communication, maximising their potential for storytelling, empowering players through play, and engaging audiences in complex narratives.
Traditionally, games are excellent vehicles for play within which learning, and communication, take place. Games are also vehicles for storytelling, connecting audiences to stories through interaction. I design games which maximise these essential components to turn contemporary research narratives into interactive stories and experiences.
I have worked with a wide range of private and public clients, including Academics, Architects, local authorities, Educators, research groups, and private parties. Recent projects include an exploration-based card game for Norwich Good Economy Commission and Norwich Council, a board game for a research group exploring optimising algorithms for relocating refugees, and an interactive experience for the development of resilience in primary school children.
As a scholar and a designer, I educate students on the fundamental elements of game design which cross both analogue and digital disciplines; working to establish connections between students’ studio practice and the intellectual fields of games studies and cultural studies.
As the industry liaison for the course, I work to update and maintain the course content and delivery so that it is in line with contemporary industry practices. Recent projects include live art tests and career experiences in partnership with Sumo Digital and Odd Bug Studio.