A practical workshop exploring how projected images can be aligned and shaped for physical surfaces, objects and environments.

Projection mapping is about making light fit real-world surfaces. In this hands-on workshop, you will explore how projected images can be aligned and shaped for physical shapes, objects and environments.

About this event

This practical workshop introduces the core ideas behind projection mapping: light, surface, content and alignment. You will learn how projectors turn digital images into real-world experiences, and how mapping techniques can be used to fit visuals onto walls, objects, artwork, stage sets and geometric forms.

The session will take place at Leeds Beckett Knowledge Exchange on Thursday 24 September 2026, 3:00pm - 6:30pm. The workshop is hosted by Daniel Brown, creative technologist with a background in projection, virtual reality, immersive video and interactive environments.

Across the afternoon, you will move between short explanations, demonstrations and practical group activities. You will look at how projection mapping works, how surfaces can be skewed and aligned, how structured-light scanning can help software understand a surface, and how real-world projection setups need to be planned.

The workshop is designed for beginners, but it will also be useful for people who already work with digital media and want to better understand projection, installation planning and spatial content.

What you will learn

During the workshop, you will:

Learn the basics of projection mapping - Understand how projected images can be aligned, masked, skewed and mapped onto physical surfaces.

Explore skewing and surface alignment - Use simple mapping tools to adjust digital surfaces so they fit objects, corners, panels and geometric forms.

See structured-light scanning in action - Learn how projected light patterns can be used to read the shape and detail of a surface.

Think about projection logistics - Plan projector position, throw distance, brightness, cabling, power, safety and audience viewpoint.

Work through a practical group challenge - Test ideas, make decisions, solve problems and discuss how projection can transform a space.

Who is this for?

This workshop is suitable for:

Visual artists and designers

Filmmakers, animators and motion designers

Students and educators

Creative technologists

People interested in installation, performance, events or immersive media

Anyone curious about how projection mapping works in practice

No experience with projection-mapping software is required. The workshop will be beginner-friendly, practical and collaborative. The focus is on learning the process, trying things out and understanding how projection mapping works in real spaces. There is no requirement to bring your own laptops - all necessary hardware and software is provided.

Description supplied by the event organiser.