AN INNOVATIVE virtual reality project earned a Newport student international recognition.

University of Wales, Newport PhD student Brigitta Zics was shortlisted by a jury of experts as one of Europe's best young multimedia artists.

Her 'Mirror_SPACE' project uses video and computer technology to reflect faces and transform them into abstract images, creating a new digital version of the person.

Brigitta, 28, who comes from Budapest, beat off competition from more than 400 media artists from 33 countries to make the final shortlist of 22 invited to the Top Talent Festival in Vienna.

Her project will also be published in the Top Talent book and be featured in a DVD of innovation in multimedia.

Brigitta said: "I was very pleased to have been selected to take part in this prestigious festival.

"The feedback from people who've experienced the 'Mirror_SPACE' project has been amazing."