XR career insights from CULTVR Lab

Did you know Wales is home to the UK’s first immersive art centre? Since 2019, CULTVR Lab has been an innovative space where artists can research, prototype, and present their immersive projects to audiences in Cardiff. From producers and animators to live music performers and dancers, CULTVR supports the research and development of cutting-edge XR experiences across various multi-disciplinary fields.

 In 2024, they launched Unlocking XR, supported by our Creative Skills Fund, offering workshops, masterclasses, mentoring, and internships in immersive tech.

 As part of this project, CULTVR is collaborating with universities and the King’s Trust to provide essential skills for creators to explore and apply XR technologies.  

Immersive arts spans many creative disciplines, from virtual reality (VR) filmmaking to interactive AR gaming. If you’re curious about how you can explore XR technologies in your work, start by narrowing your focus. For instance, if you’re into music, explore spatial audio; if film is your passion, consider 360-degree filmmaking or VR editing.

 Janire says, ‘At CULTVR, we embrace multi-disciplinary arts; it’s always been at our core. With this comes so many different applications of XR, so creatives need to identify their main interest and what they want to delve into further.’

To stay current in XR, it’s crucial to learn about the latest industry-standard software. Tools vary by field, so do your research and, if you can, choose software that most supports your creative work.

 Janire says, ‘Unreal Engine or Unity are quite popular these days to be the basis for creating interactive, immersive experiences. There are also tools like Screenberry for projection mapping and Resolume and TouchDesigner for audio-visual performances. If you’re into VR production, Adobe programs like After Effects and Premiere Pro can be incredibly useful to create immersive content. There’s such a wide spectrum of software out there, depending on your art form.’

If you want to gain hands-on experience with a range of XR technologies, there are lots of ways you can get involved at CULTVR, from their open days and rehearsals to their Q&As and guided tours.

 Since 2019, they’ve also been delivering an immersive arts residency programme and workshops focused on immersive technologies. You can attend some of their live events to experience how other creatives use XR tech and join their freelance database to register your interest in technical and creative roles.

 Janire says, ‘Our mission at CULTVR is to offer opportunities so we can empower the younger generations to learn about the potential of utilising immersive tech across different careers going forward.’

Networking at festivals, conferences and industry events is one of the best ways to learn about XR. You’ll discover new tools, emerging projects, and connect with other creatives, whilst getting a greater idea of what already exists and what is possible.

 Janire says, ‘At events, you get a flavour of what other people are doing in the industry. You get inspired and learn about the tools they use and how they are applied to different industries. Remember to talk to your peers and ask questions – many people are open, friendly, and happy to share insights.’

CULTVR’s vision is to continue pushing the boundaries of immersive technologies and nurturing a dynamic XR ecosystem in Wales. By investing in the next generation of innovative creatives, they hope to position Wales as a leader in cutting-edge XR experiences.

 Through ongoing partnerships, projects like Unlocking XR, and a commitment to innovation, CULTVR will continue championing creators across our nation.

Janire says, ‘Unless there are resources to support the creation, distribution and presentation of immersive artworks, we’re never going to be able to support artists and develop the medium further.

 ‘That’s why the support from Creative Wales is crucial. Without it, Wales can’t benefit from the resources and the infrastructure that we have right here in Cardiff.

‘We want to continue to support artists and offer opportunities for education so we can empower the younger generations to learn about the potential of utilising immersive tech across different careers going forward.’

If you’re interested in learning more about the work that CULTVR do, as well as how to attend their upcoming events, visit their website. Or to find out more about our Creative Skills Fund projects, head here.