Inside the Electrifying Projection Mapping Workshop in BRAC University Bangladesh 2025[ Recap]

Introduction to Projection Mapping Workshop in BRAC University Bangladesh

On July 20th, 2025, BRAC University in Dhaka, Bangladesh hosted a groundbreaking Projection Mapping Workshop titled "Bringing Anything to Life". With over 100 excited attendees and one of the country’s leading projection artists conducting the session, the workshop merged art, science, and technology into an electrifying experience. Conducted by Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed, widely recognized as Bangladesh’s first VJ and projection mapping pioneer, this event was much more than just a lecture—it was a portal into the future of visual technology.

What is Projection Mapping?

Projection mapping is the art of turning everyday surfaces—buildings, boxes, landmarks—into dynamic displays using software-controlled light projections. It’s more than just cool visuals. It tells stories, enhances architecture, and creates immersive environments by aligning projections precisely with the object's contours.

Why It Matters in Today's Tech Landscape

In a digital world increasingly driven by visual communication, projection mapping stands as a confluence of storytelling, technology, and innovation. Whether for commercial advertising, immersive theater, or academic research, it opens up creative avenues for artists, engineers, and marketers alike.

About the Conductor: Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed

Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed isn’t just an artist; he’s a visionary. With 14 years of experience in visual performance, he is Bangladesh’s first acknowledged VJ and projection mapping artist, and an educator of Resolume and Madmapper. Currently an ambassador of HeavyM, his global reputation is rooted in his commitment to education and building the art-tech community worldwide.

The Role of BRAC University Electrical and Electronic Engineering Club

The event was powered by the BRAC University Electrical and Electronic Engineering Club, a proactive student-led initiative that’s redefining how tech education happens on campus. Their effort in hosting this workshop exemplifies their dedication to pushing boundaries in engineering education.

Workshop Theme: Bringing Anything to Life

The aptly titled workshop, "Bringing Anything to Life", wasn’t just about projecting visuals. It was about showing how even lifeless boxes could be transformed into stunning displays through creativity and software—a true metaphor for innovation itself.

Audience and Participation Highlights

The energy in the room was palpable with 100+ enthusiastic participants attending the hands-on session. Attendees ranged from engineering students to creative enthusiasts, all united by curiosity and a willingness to learn something new.

The “O Yeah” Factor: Engagement Through Enthusiasm

Throughout the session, Zunayed engaged participants in a unique way—asking them to shout “O yeah!” whenever they discovered something fascinating. It became the workshop’s catchphrase, turning the learning process into a memorable experience.

From Ibn Al-Haytham to High-Tech

The workshop opened with a humorous yet insightful story about Ibn Al-Haytham, the father of optics. Zunayed skillfully bridged the gap between centuries-old scientific principles and modern-day projection mapping, setting a brilliant tone for the day.

How the Workshop Was Structured

The session unfolded in well-paced segments—from theory and demo to hands-on activities and student-led mapping projects. Each phase was designed to maximize interaction and ensure that learning was both comprehensive and engaging.

Essentials for Starting Projection Mapping

Zunayed outlined both the physical tools (projectors, software, surfaces) and the mental toolkit (creativity, patience, vision) necessary for anyone wanting to start in projection mapping. This combination set the tone for the practical segments that followed.

First Live Demo Using Madmapper

Using Madmapper, Zunayed turned a photo of some ordinary boxes into a breathtaking visual display—right in front of the audience. This demo showed how quickly and powerfully projection mapping can be executed with the right tools.

Boxes to Beauty: Turning 3D Surfaces into Art

From the photo to the physical, the demo transitioned to actual 3D surfaces. Using projection tools, he wrapped animations around box shapes, creating illusions of depth, motion, and transformation. The simplicity of the setup made the impact even more profound.

The Mental Aspect of Projection Mapping: Vision & Creativity

Projection mapping isn’t just technical—it’s deeply creative. The conductor emphasized how imagination and storytelling play just as crucial a role as software skills, inspiring students to tap into their creative minds.

Common Do's and Don'ts Shared in the Workshop

From surface prep to light placement, Zunayed broke down industry best practices and common pitfalls. The interactive discussion helped attendees avoid beginner mistakes and understand real-world challenges.

The Role of HeavyM in Live Mapping

The second phase featured HeavyM, a user-friendly visual mapping tool that added a whole new layer of interactivity. Its intuitive interface and dynamic features made it the perfect software for a live student demo.

Hands-On Participation with HeavyM Software

Participants got a chance to use HeavyM directly on stage. Three students took center stage to map live on boxes while others watched the visuals unfold on a large projection screen behind them—making the entire room part of the experience.

Technical Setup: Equipment, Lights, and Projection Tools

The setup involved projectors, a computer with licensed software, mapped 3D surfaces, and lighting adjustments. Zunayed shared tips on optimal positioning, light balance, and syncing visuals with objects for best results.

Live On-Stage Demonstration with Students

This segment was a highlight, as it offered peer-led inspiration. Students, guided by Zunayed, created real-time projection maps, turning theory into action while receiving immediate feedback from the conductor.

How BRACU Facilitated Software Licensing

Thanks to HeavyM’s collaboration, BRAC University students received temporary licenses to experiment with the software for one week post-workshop. This gesture extended the learning opportunity beyond the day itself.

The Puzzle Metaphor: Innovation Needs More Blocks

In the final segment, Zunayed shared a powerful analogy: he represented 3 out of 10 building blocks needed to fuel innovation. The remaining 7 blocks? They lie with the students, the dreamers, and the next generation of creators.

Takeaways for Future Innovators

Participants walked away with more than just technical knowledge. They gained insights, motivation, and a belief that with the right mindset and tools, anything—even static boxes—can be brought to life.

Final Moments: Heartwarming Conclusion

The workshop ended with a heartfelt chest handover and a photo session, sealing the memories of an event that was as emotional as it was educational.

Student Testimonials and Reactions

From awe to appreciation, student responses were overwhelmingly positive. Many shared how they never imagined learning could be this fun, interactive, and futuristic.

Software Review: HeavyM in Focus

HeavyM’s user-friendliness made it a favorite among participants. Its drag-and-drop interface, real-time rendering, and BRACU-exclusive access turned it into a game-changer during the session.

Resolume and Madmapper: Industry Standards Discussed

Besides HeavyM, tools like Resolume and Madmapper were discussed as industry-standard options for serious projection mappers. Zunayed shared his personal workflow and use cases.

How This Workshop Adds Value to the Art-Tech Ecosystem in Bangladesh

This workshop didn’t just teach skills—it ignited a movement. It positioned BRAC University as a forward-thinking institution and Bangladesh as an emerging hub in projection-based innovation.

What’s Next for BRACU’s Tech Community?

The club hinted at future events around AR, interactive installations, and immersive storytelling—proving that this is just the beginning for BRACU’s art-tech initiatives.

Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed’s Vision for Future Workshops

Zunayed aims to develop a Projection Mapping Curriculum for South Asian institutions. His goal? Make Bangladesh a leader in immersive visual technologies within the next five years.

Projection Mapping Workshop in BRAC University Bangladesh

In every way, the Projection Mapping Workshop in BRAC University Bangladesh was a success. It showed how creativity, community, and technology can come together to inspire a new generation of innovators.

FAQs

What is projection mapping used for?
Projection mapping is used to project images or animations onto irregular surfaces, often for advertising, art installations, or immersive performances.

Who conducted the workshop at BRAC University?
Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed, a pioneer in Bangladesh’s projection mapping scene, conducted the session.

Was the workshop hands-on?
Yes! Students had live mapping opportunities using tools like Madmapper and HeavyM.

What tools were used in the workshop?
The main tools were HeavyM and Madmapper software, along with projectors and mapped surfaces.

Can I learn projection mapping without prior experience?
Absolutely! The workshop was beginner-friendly and emphasized creativity alongside technical know-how.

Will there be more workshops like this in the future?
Yes. Both BRACU and Zunayed Sabbir Ahmed are planning more events around immersive tech education.