In 2013, during my final year at IUPUI, I was asked to help with a cross-disciplinary project called Return of Aetheria, an alternate reality game (ARG) developed for GenCon. The goal was to create a convention-wide experience where players completed live quests, interacted with characters, and unlocked story elements throughout the weekend.

I was brought on initially for projection mapping, but ended up taking on several roles. My main focus areas were:

• Projection Mapping & Installation: Helped design and build a large, faceted crystal for projection; sourced and calibrated projectors; handled content playback using Millumin; used Mapamok for alignment and Maya/After Effects for asset creation.
• Creative Tech & Direction: Acted as technical and creative lead for the projection workflow — helping integrate animation with physical space.
• Story Development & TA Work: Assisted with story structure and dialogue writing for the in-game characters. Also supported faculty as a TA, helping coordinate teams and guide students across different tracks (art, animation, programming).

It was a huge group effort — over 40 students and multiple faculty — and a great example of what can happen when artists, storytellers, and technologists all work together. Definitely one of those “learn-by-doing” experiences that stuck with me.

Here’s a short article from the time:
https://www.indystar.com/story/news/2013/08/15/iupui-develops-multiplayer-game-for-gen-con-indy-2013/2662749