Digital tapestry contract for Spirit of the Highlands project at Inverness Castle awarded to Bristol-based augmented and virtual reality studio Zubr Curio
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A leading augmented and virtual reality studio will create a digital tapestry illuminating local history and heritage within the Spirit of the Highlands project at Inverness Castle.
Bristol-based Zubr Curio, which specialises in digital interpretation for museums, galleries, libraries and heritage sites, was awarded the contract by Highland Council.
Zubr Curio will be charged with creating innovative interactive technology to enhance the physical artwork and the stories within embroidered panels already being developed as part of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands project.
Announcing the contract award, High Life Highland (HLH) said the panels would be brought to life for new audiences, providing a unique experience that would allow interaction with the artwork itself using animation, interactive filters, video and interview pieces.
High Life Highland is currently working with Zubr Curio to plan a trip around the region to capture interviews from stitching volunteers and landscape pieces to enhance the digital interpretation of the tapestry.
Councillor Ian Brown, leader of Inverness city and area and co-chair of the Inverness Castle delivery group, said: “It’s fascinating to see the scope of work companies such as Zubr Curio can develop for the arts, culture and heritage sectors.
“This unique digital interpretation will allow us to deliver cultural heritage on an intergenerational level, with the bonus of being able to explore selected aspects of the Tapestry of the Highlands and Islands from wherever you are.
“I can’t wait to see more.”
Amy Stewart, project manager for Zubr Virtual Reality Ltd, said: “This is an exciting partnership that brings together the rich stories of the Highlands and Islands, the expertise of the stitching groups and tapestry team with Zubr Curio’s quirky and playful AR approach.
“We’re strong believers that digital interpretation should literally augment physical exhibitions instead of distracting from or replacing them, so this project presents a wonderful challenge.
“We’re aiming to create imaginative moments that will result in an immersive and accessible digital experience.”
Simone Einfalt, Visual Content Producer, Zubr Virtual Reality Ltd, said: “During our Highlands trip in April, we will explore its dynamic communities; spotlighting the stunning diversity within the region, we will create a series of mini films to explore individual anecdotes, cultural history and the landscape in relation to its architecture.
“This will form part of Zubr Curio’s rich digital interpretation to add to the continuing success of the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project.”
Completed tapestry panels will be exhibited within the newly transformed Inverness Castle when it opens in 2025, as well as within community venues across the Highlands and Islands.
The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project is a partnership project between The Highland Council and High Life Highland, which is being delivered in collaboration with VisitScotland.
The Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project will encourage visitors to explore and experience all parts of the Highlands and Islands, as well as inspiring them to attend and support festivals and events, visitor attractions and outdoor locations across the area.
It is supported by a grant from the Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund (NCHF), led by NatureScot and funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
The Castle, reopening in 2025, will benefit from £30m investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK Governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and a range of other partners.
The project is part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, which is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.
