Spotlight
March 24, 2025
Sony and Pixomondo launch VP Academy for Virtual Art Departments in Japan
In recent decades, we’ve seen a steady increase in the use of virtual production techniques in filmmaking. Many productions are now using in-camera VFX (ICVFX), where a traditional set is replaced with a large LED screen displaying a real-time CG background. The scene is then shot with both actors and background captured in the camera at the same time.
ICVFX requires the creation of 3D content and knowledge of a real-time engine like Unreal Engine, and that’s where a Virtual Art Department (VAD) comes in. In Japan, where the number of VP-equipped studios is steadily increasing, the demand for VAD artists is outpacing the supply.
ICVFX requires the creation of 3D content and knowledge of a real-time engine like Unreal Engine, and that’s where a Virtual Art Department (VAD) comes in. In Japan, where the number of VP-equipped studios is steadily increasing, the demand for VAD artists is outpacing the supply.
In response to this need, Sony PCL has launched PXO’s VP Academy for VAD, an online course aimed at fostering VP talent in Japan. The course is based on a program that award-winning studio Pixomondo (PXO) launched in North America in 2021.
Sony PCL, an early pioneer of VP technology in Japan, operates KIYOSUMI-SHIRAKAWA BASE, a facility that supports cutting-edge VP content creation. In October 2022, Pixomondo became part of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Sony PCL, an early pioneer of VP technology in Japan, operates KIYOSUMI-SHIRAKAWA BASE, a facility that supports cutting-edge VP content creation. In October 2022, Pixomondo became part of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
Pixomondo is known for high-profile projects from Hollywood blockbusters to popular TV series. The studio used ICVFX on projects like House of the Dragon, Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender.
While the Japanese program is currently available only online, future plans include offering onsite studio training and workshops.
While the Japanese program is currently available only online, future plans include offering onsite studio training and workshops.
By acquiring practical skills and learning the latest VP technologies, participants in PXO’s VP Academy for VAD will be able to enter the film production job market in Japan with a strong foundation in increasingly sought-after filmmaking techniques.
If you’re interested in seeing the curriculum at PXO’s VP Academy for VAD, check out the official website.
If you’re interested in seeing the curriculum at PXO’s VP Academy for VAD, check out the official website.
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