XR & Volumetric Capture

The Magic Behind the Innovation

At the heart of ARray lies Guildhall’s Holosys Volumetric Capture System, based at Target3D's London studios. Unlike traditional photography or CGI avatars, this sophisticated setup records not just how clothing looks, but how it moves, drapes and interacts with human forms. The result is an unprecedented level of fidelity that reveals the true character of each piece – from the subtle shimmer of silk to the dramatic sweep of a period gown.

Collaborating with Angels Costumes, a world-renowned costume house based in London UK with over 180 years of industry expertise, the team has digitised 20 carefully curated looks from their exceptional stock into an interactive library. Users can explore costumes from every angle, view them in motion, experiment with lighting conditions and even visualise pieces within stage environments.

Real-World Impact

The project addresses genuine industry challenges such as production locations, challenging schedules and expansive collaborative work. Designers can now review and select costume without the logistical complexities of physical viewings. For heritage institutions, ARray offers a revolutionary way to preserve and share historical collections, allowing the public to engage with delicate artefacts that might otherwise remain in storage.

Beta testing with industry professionals, international costume houses, and stage and screen costume practitioners revealed strong enthusiasm for the app's pre-visualisation capabilities. Sector specialists were particularly impressed by the tool's ability to reveal crucial details about fabric behaviour whilst highlighting its effectiveness for "visualising moodboards" and enabling "very fast last-minute rentals for small projects."

Beyond the Stage

While ARray began as a solution for performance costume design, its applications extend beyond the performing arts. Industry feedback has highlighted significant potential for bridal wear visualisation, uniform design and luxury fashion showcasing, with professionals noting how the technology could "support marketing by showing products in an interactive way." Early discussions with high-end fashion partners suggest exciting possibilities for expanding into new markets while maintaining the project's core mission of supporting the creative industries.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Perhaps most importantly, ARray doesn't seek to replace the tactile intimacy of traditional costume craftwork. Instead, it enhances and streamlines existing processes, reducing environmental impact while opening new pathways for creative exploration. Designers can trial costume combinations on virtual avatars, integrate digital costume concepts into set designs and visualise pieces in augmented reality – all while preserving the craftsmanship and artistry that makes costume design so compelling.

Looking Forward

ARray represents more than just technological innovation; it's a bridge between heritage craftsmanship and digital possibility. Industry professionals have recognised its particular strengths in showcasing "specialist heritage pieces" and creating digital archives, with one tester noting its value for displaying "special pieces" and creating "an archive of outstanding outfits before they disappear." As the project continues to evolve, incorporating AI-driven enhancements and expanding its catalogue, it promises to transform how we think about costume design, heritage preservation and creative collaboration in the digital age.

ARray was developed by Guildhall Production Studio and Guildhall School’s Costume department, in partnership with Angels Costumes and Target3D, with generous support from the AHRC CResCa fund.