Studio launches new training initiatives, working with the latest virtual production and LED stage techniques, at Sony PCL, Vook school in Japan, and Vancouver Film School.
Pixomondo (PXO) has announced that its Virtual Production Academy (VP Academy), which offers advanced educational programs in film and media technology, has expanded from its current working relationship with Seneca Polytechnic by adding new collaborations with Sony PCL, Vook school in Japan, and Vancouver Film School.
“At PXO, we are focused on shaping the future of virtual production,” said Mahmoud Rahnama, Chief Innovation Officer, Pixomondo. “PXO is dedicated to delivering expertise in virtual production and education, advancing the capabilities of professionals and students worldwide. By building on the great work at Seneca Polytechnic and through these new initiatives with Sony PCL, Vook, and Vancouver Film School, we can build scale and truly reach a global audience.”
PXO’s VP Academy offers a Virtual Art Department (VAD) program with customizable curricula tailored for both industry professionals and emerging talent. By integrating practical skills with innovative techniques and technologies, the academy empowers filmmakers who are ready to navigate and shape the future landscape of the entertainment industry.
The “Virtual Production: Art Department Content Creation” Microcredential, a 12-week program developed by PXO’s VP Academy and offered through Seneca Polytechnic, completed its second run during the winter of 2024 and will reopen again in the Fall of 2024. With instruction from top industry professionals, this online microcredential will continue as a joint offering by Seneca and PXO, maintaining their commitment to delivering cutting-edge education in virtual production.
“Seneca’s partnership with Pixomondo through the Virtual Production Training program provides our students with the signature elements of a polytechnic education, including access to industry-leading experts, a cutting-edge curriculum, and the opportunity to master in-demand skills and competencies. We are confident this collaboration will continue to set up our graduates for success in their careers,” said Kurt Muller, Dean, Faculty of Communication, Art & Design, Seneca Polytechnic.
In collaboration with Sony PCL and Vook, PXO’s VP Academy for VAD Program is set to commence in Japan in June 2024. This initiative combines PXO’s industry-leading expertise, Sony PCL’s established presence in the Japanese market, and Vook’s innovative educational model to develop the next generation of virtual production professionals. This joint effort exemplifies a shared vision to enhance training opportunities and extend virtual production capabilities in Japan.
“The cultivation of creative talent adept in handling new technologies poses a significant challenge as virtual production becomes more prevalent,” said Yutaka Okabayashi, Board Director, Executive Vice President, Sony PCL Inc. “We believe that offering PXO's world-class virtual production expertise in Japan presents the greatest opportunity to enhance the possibilities of content expression.”
PXO’s VP Academy is also working with Vancouver Film School on a 12-week VAD Content Creation Certificate Program. This alliance will integrate direct industry knowledge into VFS’ educational expertise, significantly broadening the prospects and creative exploration for students and professionals.
“Vancouver Film School is thrilled to be partnering with Pixomondo,” said Jonathan Bell, Managing Director, VFS. “Through our ever-increasing industry partnerships our school aims to work as closely with the industry as possible. As the industry evolves, VFS is committed to evolving alongside it, and this new program is just the latest offering that will further embed the industry into our curriculum – expanding our students’ career horizons and ability to explore new avenues within the creative industries.”
For more information on the program, people can go to https://vook.vc/p/virtual-production and https://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/programs/workshops/PXO.html.
Source: Pixomondo
Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.
