The field of Virtual Reality is changing almost daily. New products and techniques now give us incredible control over the immersive VR experience, and the vocabulary for VR communication is now being written. Powerful game engines like Unity3D have lowered the bar for VR hobbyists and artists, and modern-day cell phones have all of the components necessary to render convincing VR in real-time. This class will focus on experimental and narrative VR projects. We will look at the history of visual storytelling and art, as well as critical analysis of media, as a starting point for conceiving our VR projects. We will continuously compare older mediums to VR in order to best understand what works well in a VR experience. We will also discuss the history of VR, and look at recent VR projects.

The class will cover 3 broad conceptual themes, which will give focus to the projects. The themes are recontextualization, symbolism, and mythology. Some techniques that we will explore are 2D media in a 3D space, 3D world building, VR GUI, and external networked interfaces.

Our primary tool will be Unity3D. Unity allows us to combine a variety of media- images, audio, 3D models, and programming- into a single real-time VR experience. Although VR creation has never been easier, there will be a learning curve for most students. Be prepared to spend time outside of class learning new skills. Because of the diversity of skills required, students are encouraged to collaborate. Success in the class is based on weekly assignments, a midterm project, and a final project. Class participation and discussion are also required. No previous knowledge of Unity3D is necessary, but students should be motivated to explore and learn on their own. Ideally, students will have completed either one animation class, or one post-ICM programming class.

Christopher Kairalla