A look at technologies redefining modern storytelling. Speakers from USC's, Entertainment Technology Center, and Conrad Curtis from, Beeble/Xgrids will talk about the role of three new technologies re- shaping the media we make, who makes it, and how it's it's being made.
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This event focuses on how traditional workflows are changing and what people using these new technologies have to say. What are the advantages of using them, and what are some of the drawbacks? If you're interested in learning more about these new tools and techniques, this is the event for you.
Erik Weaver and others from the Entertainment Technology Center (ETC) will discuss how AI inverts the traditional pipeline, using their work on the shorts "The Bends" and "Pathways" as examples. They used the usual craft heads in their AI workflow and responsible AI.
Conrad Curtis will talk about using the XGRIDS PortalCam, which recently became the first product to win four NAB Product of the Year awards in a single year, with Beeble. The XGRIDS camera enables physical environments to become structured spatial data that's usable across production, simulation, and AI-driven applications.
Presenters:
- Eric Weaver, Sarah Ivy, and Tom Thudiyanplackal, from the Entertainment Technology Center @ USC
- Conrad Curtis, Beeble/Xgrids
More about the USC ETC projects:
"The Bends" merged the best of both, the precision of traditional filmmaking, and the innovation of an AI-based workflow. The project integrates virtual machines (VMs), GenJams, and a custom ShotGrid pipeline to orchestrate a cohesive and traceable creative process. Traditional department heads worked alongside AI researchers to explore the boundaries of generative media.
"Pathways" merges live-action performance with AI-assisted cinematography and postproduction, working with a small, mobile crew to design a visual language that could later be enhanced through AI-driven reconstruction. A Virtual Art Department (VAD) was central to the production, generating temporary composited environments that guided both shot composition and director’s blocking. These previews allowed the creative team to visualize set extensions, refine camera placement, and test interactive lighting in near real time. The film functions as a proof-of-concept for responsible and artistically coherent AI-integrated filmmaking.
6:30 - 7:30 -- Social Hour - grab some light refreshments and network with the speakers/attendees
7:30 - 7:40 -- Introductions
7:40 - 9:30 -- Presentations
You must register with EventBrite to attend this event.
This will be an in-person event at The Clubhouse in Santa Monica (1201 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404), one of Los Angeles' newests venues which is quickly becoming a hub for those pushing the limits of how technology is used in their creations.
There is ample street parking available and the 17th Street/SMC, Metro station is just a five minute walk away so that's also a great option.
There is a suggested donation of $10 or $20 but we understand that times are difficult and it's not mandatory.
We greatly appreciate it if you can as donations and Chapter Membership helps cover our expenses. You may Join the chapter for $40/year or Donate any amount. We accept online payments through PayPal.
Andrew Cochrane and team at The Clubhouse, all the speakers and the members of the Executive Council of the LA chapter of ACM SIGGRAPH.
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