Waylight: Mapping the Journey of Faith

Author

Emma WoerleFollow

Abstract

Waylight is a digital learning platform that reimagines how we explore the life of Jesus through maps, movement, and meaningful interaction. Designed to bridge the gap between static Bible study tools and the physical settings of Scripture, the platform allows users to follow curated journeys such as Miracles or Timelines across ancient Israel. The project began with experimental designs using three-dimensional terrain and literal religious symbols. These early versions lacked cohesion and felt visually heavy. As the work progressed, the design shifted toward a more refined two-dimensional aesthetic inspired by textures like layered paper and the craft of carpentry. This direction maintained a sense of warmth and symbolism while supporting a clean, modern interface. The final map was built in Illustrator and prototyped in Figma, focusing on clarity, structure, and spatial storytelling. Each location on the map includes a modular content card with selected Scripture, contextual background, and optional reflections. The interface is designed to be accessible and calm, using a neutral color palette, clear typography, and thoughtful pacing to support users across a wide range of ages and learning styles. Public feedback at Imagine RIT confirmed the system’s educational value and cross-generational appeal. Visitors expressed interest in using it for personal study, youth groups, and classrooms. The long-term vision for Waylight is to expand beyond the life of Jesus to include both Old and New Testament journeys. Future development could add devotionals, quizzes, and study guides. While artificial intelligence supported early research and prototyping, final content would be created by pastors, historians, theologians, and educators to ensure accuracy and depth. Waylight demonstrates how visual communication and interaction design can support meaningful engagement with Scripture through a clear and spatially organized experience.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Jesus Christ--Biography--Interactive multimedia--Design; Bible--Geography--Interactive multimedia--Design; Christian education--Audio-visual aids--Design

Publication Date

5-4-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Visual Communication Design (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Design, School of

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Mike Strobert

Advisor/Committee Member

Daniel DeLuna

Recommended Citation

Woerle, Emma, "Waylight: Mapping the Journey of Faith" (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12146

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

VISCOM-MFA