Discover Dogs’ Dales this weekend as augmented reality comes to Skipton | Craven Herald

Skipton based digital artist and film professional Virpi Kettu, of Kettu Studios, is the creator of Dogs’ Dales. It is full of regional folk-lore creatures and dancing dog characters inspired by real people.

Now, Dogs’ Dales has been made into an animated television series and story related multiple location based, educational AR trail mobile game applications. And, it will launch on Saturday (May 21) in Skipton.

During the weekend, there will be app helpers helping the uninitiated to use the game and take fun dancing pictures with the digital dogs.

Once the trail is completed, the game will generate a treat to collect from a shop in the town. The app is free to download from online app stores from the weekend onwards.

Virpi, who came up with the name Dogs’ Dales because when she first moved to the area it seemed everyone owned a dog, said: “The aim of this project is to shine a new and exciting light on our historical home through a fun story that is based on this reality and local folklore. The hope is that this will entertain locals and visitors alike, and invigorate the interest in the area, as well as inform people about the digital possibilities.”

“This AR app is easy to use, fun for all ages and is intended to be something families and people of any age can do together, or on their own too. It will take you to an easily accessible fun trail around town to meet Dogs’ Dales characters and in the end give you a treat voucher for a local independent business. A great way to explore the town.”

Virpi added: “Personally it has been very inspirational to learn about Skipton and the Dales; the history, legends and amazing personalities in the region. This project is my homage to the magic of the area and the great cultural heritage.”

The Dogs Dales app is one of the projects funded by Historic England’s Skipton Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) initiative to revitalise rural town centres.

To find out more go to: www.dogsdales.com and www.kettustudios.com. social media: @dogsdales and @kettustudios