Virtual Production Innovation Studio
Creating Canada's first Indigenous-led virtual production filmmaking program
Project Overview
The Problem
Virtual production (VP) is the next digital transformation in the film industry. VP techniques have rapidly affected core skills within filmmaking, including cinematography, production design, virtual effects, animation, directing and beyond. While VP offers a more controlled, cost-effective environment for production, it requires significant upskilling for current media production roles and specialized skilling to develop the right micro-credentials for new media professionals.
How We Are Solving It
Led by IM4 Lab, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, in partnership with Unity Technologies, William F White International, Laboratory of Artistic Intelligence, Rushcut Media, Vancouver Film School, University of Victoria, University of British Columbia Okanagan and Capilano University Indigenous Film Program, this program will develop Canada’s first Indigenous-led virtual production facility, including an extended realist (XR) lab and skills training workshops.
IM4 Lab’s curriculum reflects storytelling through an Indigenous lens, combined with technical expertise and hands-on learning including writing, directing, cinematography, editing, visual effects, art direction and technical direction. The three-part curriculum will focus on:
- Thinking in Virtual Production – Transforming Production
- Working To Create Virtual Production
- Specialized Skills In Virtual Production
The Virtual Production Innovation Studio program will support 30 emerging media professionals from urban, remote, and rural Indigenous communities in BC, including off-reserve status and non-status Indians, Metis and Inuit.
Indigenous artists and filmmakers will be able to work remotely and remain in their own communities, creating a new ecosystem to produce valuable Indigenous cultural content. At the same time, the initiative prepares Indigenous people for a high-demand workforce in VP and creating economic opportunities that can be applied more equitably for Indigenous producers.
Project Lead
Project Partners
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“I believe that Indigenous entrepreneurial spirit, combined with cultural expression, technological knowledge and tools, can drive our own economic development and are a critical part of the growth of digital, technology and cultural industries in British Columbia.”
Founder and Creative Director, IM4 Labs Learn more about IM4 Lab