Voices of VR

René van Engelenburg, a Dutch designer from DROPSTUFF MEDIA, discusses his innovative installation, SWEET!, which uses an OpenAI LLM-driven virtual being to explore parallels between sugar and AI. The conversation highlights the Socratic method's limitations in creating genuine dialogue. René dives into how participant responses influence visual art within the installation, while also examining mixed reality's role in storytelling. He reflects on the challenges and potential of integrating AI in creative environments, questioning AI's impact on narratives and engagement.

Tamara Shogaolu, an XR creator and multidisciplinary artist, discusses her innovative projects that weave technology and storytelling. She shares insights on her AR game ANOUSCHKA which connects players to ancestral memories. Shogaolu tackles the challenge of erasure in AI and how she's hacked existing models to promote Black representation. She also emphasizes the need for new AI systems grounded in cultural archives to avoid extractive practices, balancing representation with historical fidelity in her artistic vision.

Chloé Lee, an artist and producer, discusses her award-winning mixed reality project, 'Reflections of Little Red Dot'. She shares her innovative approach that merges documentary footage with interactive elements, allowing audiences to explore Singapore's evolving identity. Lee highlights her personal journey to reconnect with her heritage and the challenges of blending traditional narratives with immersive experiences. The conversation also touches on the emotional significance of Singapore's cultural transformation and the future of storytelling through technology.

JP Desjardins and Emile Arragon, co-founders of Walrus Creative Technologies, dive into their innovative mixed reality game, 'The Secret Life of Monsters: The Gateway Experience.' They unveil their groundbreaking tracking technology that simplifies calibration steps, enhancing user engagement. Emile shares his sensitivity to VR motion sickness and how mixed reality offers a more comfortable alternative. The duo reflects on their journey from filmmaking to immersive tech, spotlighting the potential of mixed reality in storytelling and various industries.

In a captivating discussion, Andrew Schneider, a theater maker and XR artist known for his immersive works, shares insights about his innovative exhibit "NOWISWHENWEARE (the stars)." He reveals how the blend of 4000 LED lights and 392 speakers creates a mesmerizing tapestry of grief, loss, and cosmic connection through spatial audio. Schneider elaborates on the magic of minimalism in storytelling and the emotional journeys embedded in immersive art, all while highlighting the power of audience engagement in transforming perception.

Wayne Powell, the Global Artist Relations Manager at d&b audiotechnik, dives into the transformative world of spatial audio. He shares fascinating insights on how independent artists are leveraging this technology for immersive storytelling. From thrilling live performances to innovative collaborations, Powell discusses the evolving audio landscape and the exciting potential of formats like Dolby Atmos. He also reflects on memorable projects, including a unique installation with Bjork, all while championing the importance of creativity and collaboration in audio experiences.

In this lively discussion, Roman Rappak, co-founder of Wristband and an innovative musician, delves into his unique mixed reality performances that have captivated audiences at SXSW for four years. He shares insights on the evolution of live music through XR technology and the crucial role of storytelling in immersive experiences. Rappak showcases his latest spatial audio innovations, collaborating with d&b audiotechnik for a mesmerizing soundscape. With a focus on community and narrative, he emphasizes how these elements enhance audience engagement and create memorable experiences.

In a fascinating discussion, Tim Delaughter, the founder of Polyphonic Spree, shares how he sought new ways for audiences to engage with his album, leading to the creation of an immersive dome experience titled 'Resolution'. Alongside collaborator Scott Berman and technical director Ryan Hartzell, they explore the blend of music and animation, enhancing communal listening. They reveal the challenges faced in crafting a shared narrative that inspires empathy and connection, highlighting the remarkable success at SXSW and the power of immersive storytelling.

In this discussion, Peter Adams, a web developer and musician, unveils his innovative project, 'A Number from the Ghost,' which creates immersive WebXR worlds for his music. He shares insights on transitioning from music to interactive tech, showcasing how he combines sound with stunning visuals. The challenges of monetizing music in today's landscape are dissected, alongside his excitement about being commissioned by HTC for future WebXR experiences. Listeners are treated to a glimpse of the creative fusion between music and immersive art.

Samantha Gorman and Danny Cannizaro, co-studio leads at Tender Claws, delve into their award-winning VR project, 'Face Jumping.' They discuss the innovative use of eye-tracked locomotion that allows players to swap perspectives by locking eyes with characters. The podcast explores the emotionally charged narrative design, the blending of different media forms, and the poetic undercurrents of their storytelling. With a focus on immersive interactions, they also address the future of spatial computing and the evolving landscape of virtual reality experiences.