A new motion capture studio, Goblin Academy, opens in Leeds to support Northern creatives.
- Funded by Innovate UK, this initiative aims to train newcomers and explore creative uses of motion capture.
- Tell Studio leads the facility, focusing on grassroots training and servicing Northern game development needs.
- The studio collaborates with local projects like Project Resurgence to develop innovative applications.
- Goblin Academy’s initial offerings include workshops starting in January, with full launch expected by February 2025.
Goblin Academy, a new motion capture studio, has been established in Leeds by Tell Studio, thanks to a substantial grant of £50,000 from Innovate UK’s Creative Catalyst 2024 fund. This initiative aims to fulfill regional needs by providing industry-standard training in motion capture, a technology integral to the creative sector, particularly in gaming and visual effects.
The facility, located at Aire Street Workshops, is equipped with cutting-edge technology from Vicon, a leader in motion capture systems. This technology has been instrumental in high-profile films and games such as ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Assassin’s Creed’. Goblin Academy’s founder, Owen Seabrook, emphasised the studio’s goal of revolutionising motion capture training for newcomers and meeting the demands of the Northern creative industries.
A key component of Goblin Academy’s vision is to foster creative exploration and collaboration within the region. The studio is partnering with local initiatives, like Bradford-based Project Resurgence, to expand the potential applications of motion capture technology. Martin Howland, cofounder of Project Resurgence, remarked on the transformative impact of motion capture in dance training, highlighting its ability to provide comprehensive movement analysis for more precise skill development.
Starting in January, Goblin Academy will offer introductory workshops as part of its initial service range. These workshops are designed to equip participants with foundational skills in motion capture technology, paving the way for further innovative applications in various industries. While in its ‘alpha stage’, the studio promotes ongoing development and invites interest from potential collaborators and industry professionals.
The facility is set to fully launch by February 2025, showcasing its commitment to enhancing the capabilities of Northern creatives. This development underscores the importance of supporting local talent and innovation, contributing to the region’s burgeoning creative landscape.
Goblin Academy’s launch marks a significant step in advancing motion capture technology and training in Northern England.
