X60, an offshoot of NDigitec, has launched what it claims is the region’s first computer-generated imagery (CGI) studio.
Rob Marinissen, X60 creative director, told Packaging MEA that the firm aims “to design and create 3D models of packaging as well as all other graphic communication models with photorealistic rendering” at its Centre for CGI Research at Dubai International Media Production Zone (IMPZ).
“I believe that in the next 10 years commercial photography will be largely replaced by CGI,” he said.
Based in Dubai, the X60 CGI studio will serve the Gulf, Europe and Russia, he said.
In anticipation of a surge in demand for computer-generated photography, he hopes to employ talent from across the world within the next two years, he said.
“The biggest challenge is to find talent. Therefore X60 is committed to develop and support initiatives in Dubai that can contribute to making Dubai a No.1 hotspot for digital image creation,” he said.
Marinissen, a former head of photography at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in the Hague, in the Netherlands, will develop a programme for four CGI artists in and eight in 2014.
“In June 2013 and in October 2013, together with commercial partners, X60 will organise The Reality of CGI, two symposia with lectures by international specialists,” he said.
“Two symposia will be planned for 2014. Later this year X60 will release details on a CGI award competition, an award show and an annual Art Buyer’s Guide to Great CGI.”
X60 is now seeking sponsors and academic partners.