Finland launches first qualification program for digital costume design at Southeast Finland University of Applied Sciences

Finland is set to educate professionals specializing in digital costume design. Digital costume design involves creating clothing for characters in video games and animated films. According to Maarit Kalmakurki, a costume designer and lecturer at Southeast Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk), digital costume designers must also grasp traditional clothing design, from patterns to sewing. The goal is to ensure that digital clothing appears and behaves like real-world materials, while also allowing for boundary-breaking creativity.

Launching in early 2024, Xamk’s new program in performance costume and digital costume design will be the first to lead to an official qualification in this field. Previously, teaching related to digital costumes was primarily integrated into broader art programs.

Kalmakurki notes that digital clothing is becoming increasingly common outside of video games and animation, citing the virtual performances by the band ABBA during their “Voyage” show in London as an example. Their holographic representations recently reappeared at the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden.

In theater, audiences may unknowingly encounter digital costume designs. A digital application can initially create costumes based on an actor’s measurements, with virtual fitting processes following. Kalmakurki has developed digital models for historical costumes and specific theater productions.

Digital clothing is also a significant component of the fashion industry, with the pioneering company The Fabricant leading the way. The founder, Kerry Murphy, stated that imagination is the only limit when it comes to digital garments. Kalmakurki emphasizes that digital costume design has ecological benefits, allowing experimentation with materials and patterns without creating waste, establishing its historical roots in the evolution of the film and fashion industries.