Virtual Fish and an immersive rave come to digital plymouth
Digital Plymouth: Immersive Edition
The theme for the March edition of Digital Plymouth was Immersive Technology. The Market Hall in Devonport hosted three incredible speakers, each with their unique approach. Digital Plymouth is a quarterly gathering for Plymouth’s digital community and creative sector. Facilitated by our very own team at Soundview in collaboration with Elixel, Acronyms, and Real Ideals, Digital Plymouth features inspirational speakers, with plenty of opportunities to connect and network during the event.
National Marine Aquarium
Kicking off the event, we had Freyja Thomson, who has used the power of VR headsets to bring the majesty of the ocean to those who might not be able to access the plentiful coastlines that Plymouth has to offer. With just a headset and some enthusiasm, you can experience the beauty of diverse marine life from the comfort of your own home. This technology gives everyone the chance to benefit from virtual exposure to marine life. It was an amazing experience. Freyja has been so successful in her endeavor that she has landed herself a spot in a documentary on BBC Two!
Freyja Thomson giving a demonstration with VR headsets
Real Ideas
Lindsay Hall MBE came next. The CEO of Real Ideas (the masterminds behind Plymouth’s immersive dome) spoke about the importance of using immersive media to support children with additional needs, including an amazing anecdote involving virtual moths and butterflies. Lindsey also broke the news of an exciting collaboration between her team and Arts University Plymouth: a master’s course in Immersive Media, set to launch in September.
Lindsey Hall's Digital Plymouth talk
2xAA
Finally, we had the opportunity to go into the dome and see the magic happen first-hand with musician and producer 2xAA, who uses the immersive technology of the dome to create graphics that move and pulse along to his music. Seeing the multicolored lines and shapes dance across the ceiling, the walls and even on the floor was mesmerizing – especially when we got to have a go ourselves! 2xAA’s music is available to stream now on SoundCloud. Dancing colours are not included.
2xAA's audiovisual talents on the ceiling of the immersive dome