The Virtual Production Institute at Texas A&M University was celebrated by the Advanced Imaging Society on Friday for its contributions to the progression of virtual production education.
The announcement of the Governor’s Award for Education, Technology and Innovation came during the society’s 15th annual Lumiere Awards, which honor accomplishments in immersive storytelling through advanced visual technologies.
Affiliated with the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts, the institute was recognized alongside pioneers such as Sphere Entertainment, F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, and films including “Dune: Part Two,” “Wicked,” and “The Wild Robot.” Texas A&M stands as the sole university among this year’s award recipients.
“Innovations in visual storytelling have consistently been propelled by the insight of creatives, the ingenuity of technologists, and a competent and educated workforce that harmonizes both aspects,” remarked Tim McLaughlin, dean of the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts. “At Texas A&M University, we take immense pride in this acknowledgment from the Advanced Imaging Society for our endeavors that commenced three decades ago in Visualization, and that we are perpetuating with the Virtual Production Institute — to be a significant contributor to the art, science, and industry of imaging.”
Established in 2009, the Advanced Imaging Society is a global organization that promotes groundbreaking filmmaking and entertainment technology. It was initiated by industry frontrunners such as Walt Disney Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, DreamWorks Animation, Sony Electronics, Paramount, and IMAX, with its membership encompassing companies like Google, NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Dell Technologies.
“Our alumni are significantly represented in these leading studios and companies through their contributions to visual computing, imaging, and media,” McLaughlin stated. “Our faculty researchers and creative artists are enhancing technology and delving into concepts with the tools available. We take pride in being part of this esteemed circle.”
The Virtual Production Institute is situated on Texas A&M’s main campus in Bryan-College Station, with an extension at Texas A&M-Fort Worth. With support from the 88th Texas Legislature for faculty, staff, and equipment, the institute aims to extend beyond entertainment into workforce training and simulation for first responders, healthcare, military, manufacturing, product and architectural design, digital twin environments, and live performances.
Four virtual production stages are under construction, including two that are approaching completion in Fort Worth. The institute is collaborating with Synapse Virtual Production to merge the LED volume stages and assist in curriculum development; and Sony Electronics to supply cutting-edge LED technology and digital workflows.
A minor in virtual production was launched in the fall semester within the Visualization program, and students have utilized a temporary LED wall on the RELLIS campus in Bryan for their studies.
Wayne Miller, special adviser to the dean, mentioned the significance of being acknowledged by the Advanced Imaging Society and its members, who are leaders in the industry.
“We are thankful and proud to receive this accolade,” he stated. “We are eager to progress as our LED volumes become operational. Additionally, we are excited about our students capitalizing on the opportunity to learn the essential and pivotal tools and techniques of virtual production, preparing them to take on vital roles in the workforce.”
The article Virtual Production Institute Honored For Education And Innovation With Advanced Imaging Society Award originally appeared on Texas A&M Today.