Computing academics from Wrexham University have embarked on an innovative project that merges the realms of technology and culture. They have crafted a new Minecraft world that digitally encapsulates the essence of the Welsh cultural festival, the Eisteddfod, allowing children and teenagers to immerse themselves in this vibrant celebration within the game’s familiar environment.
Bridging Tradition and Technology
Dr. Shafiul Monir, the associate dean for international and partnerships in the faculty of arts, computing, and engineering at Wrexham University, articulated the vision behind this initiative: “We wanted to create a platform that not only showcases the vibrancy of the Eisteddfod but also promotes digital skills and access for young people.” He emphasized the potential of Minecraft as a creative tool, stating, “By using it to celebrate Welsh culture, we’re building both virtual and cultural communities.” This project seeks to bridge the gap between tradition and technology, making Welsh culture more engaging and approachable for the next generation.
In a bid to foster interactivity, children will have the opportunity to contribute by adding their own activities and landmarks within the Minecraft world, enhancing their engagement with the festival.
A Time Machine of Aspirations
Complementing the Minecraft experience, a “time machine” installation will be showcased at the physical Eisteddfod site. This installation, a collaborative effort between the university’s School of Art and the engineering department, invites attendees of all ages to record their predictions for the future of the Welsh language. Dr. Monir remarked, “While the time machine is a fantastic way of ensuring the legacy of the Wrecsam National Eisteddfod, it encourages people of all ages to look ahead and think about the future of the Welsh language.” The recorded messages will be digitally archived, creating a ‘living archive’ of aspirations for the language.
Notably, the time machine has been constructed using recycled materials, including buttons, fans, and discs salvaged from the university’s former engineering block, which is currently being demolished to pave the way for new facilities. This sustainable approach adds another layer of significance to the installation.
The time machine will play a pivotal role during the Eisteddfod’s closing event on the main stage, scheduled for the final Saturday of the festival at 10:30 PM.
Acknowledging Team Efforts
Dr. Monir took a moment to commend the collaborative spirit that fueled both initiatives. He expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, highlighting the contributions of lecturers Matthew McDonald-Dick, Rachel Rowley, Daniella Povey, and Teri Birch from the computing and games team for their work on Minecraft. For the time machine, he acknowledged master sculptor Robin Connelly from the School of Art, emphasizing that it has truly been a team effort.
Elen Mai Nefydd, Wrexham University’s head of Welsh development and vice-chair for culture of the Wrexham National Eisteddfod Executive Committee 2025, echoed these sentiments. She remarked, “Both the Minecraft game and Welsh language time machine are excellent examples of how digital innovation can support the Welsh language and promote inclusivity.” Nefydd expressed her admiration for the interdisciplinary collaboration among staff, aimed at making the Eisteddfod more engaging and accessible to children, young people, and families. She noted that these projects not only highlight the role of STEAM subjects in cultural engagement but also align with the Welsh Government’s goal of reaching one million Welsh speakers by 2050.
Following the festival, the time machine will find a new home in Wrexham University’s Creative Industries Building, where students will be encouraged to use it to record their own hopes for the future of the Welsh language.
The Eisteddfod Minecraft village is now live and can be accessed by searching for the following server details in the game:
- Server Name: Eisteddfod
- IP Address: 198.244.179.144
- Port: 2117
