Enabling Live Presence: Dynamic Video Compression for the Telematic Arts

Abstract

Telematic performance, connecting performing artists in different physical locations in a single unified ensemble, places extreme demands on the supporting media. High audio and video quality plays a fundamental role in enabling inter-artist communication and collaboration. However, currently available video solutions are either inadequate to the task or pose extreme technical requirements. A new solution is presented, vipr (videoimage protocol), which exposes a number of popular, robust video compression methods for real-time use in Jitter and Max. This new software has successfully enabled several inter-continental performances and presents exciting potentials for creative, telematic artists, musicians, and dancers.