Live Visuals for Performance and Installation: A Workshop in GPU Accelerated Graphics within Max MSP Jitter.

In this two part 6-hour workshop we will explore the OpenGL framework within Max MSP Jitter to create custom software for Live Visuals in Performance and Installation. We will look to Blender (a free and open source 3D modeling software, www.blender.org) to build our own 3D object models and create wholly unique navigable worlds in Jitter. Participants will leave equipped with an understanding of GPU accelerated video manipulation and a trove of tools and reusable code to create their own Custom Interactive Video Software.

This workshop will be geared towards beginners but will dive right into 3D and OpenGL concepts in Jitter, therefore even seasoned but patient Max users may benefit from the course. Ableton Live users wishing to learn more about sound responsive Visuals in Max are also invited to participate.Using a series of pre-made examples and reusable code we will discuss the following practices in Max MSP Jitter for Interactive Installation and Live Visual Performance:

• Importing your own Media to the World Space - Sound/Video/Still Image

• Video Mixing

• Utilizing Shader Programs for high performance video effects

• Basic 3D modeling and sculpting techniques in Blender

• Creating Real-Life Spatial Attributes for 3D Objects– Physics/Light/Texture/Material

• Manipulating Models and Media in Real-time - Spin/Move/Warp/Destroy

• Have your program react to Sound

• Video Mapping

• Technical Walk-Through for Installation and Performance Setup

• Controllers and Camera Sensors (Midi, Webcam)

• Building A Sleek User Interface for your Software



Participants should bring their own Mac laptops (OSX Snow Leopard or later). Interested Windows users should get in touch before signing up. Depending on what Mac generation you are using, for modeling purposes, it may be necessary to obtain a mouse with a scroll wheel.

A free 30-day trial of Max/MSP Jitter is available here http://cycling74.com/downloads/ – A full version of Blender is available here for free (http://www.blender.org/download/).

*Software should be downloaded and installed prior to workshop date.

(Please note that you must provide your own computers, if you have any questions about workshop or materials email: thomasjohnmartinez@gmail.com)



Thomas Martinez is a New York City based musician, artist and programmer. He makes works of multi-channel sound, video and custom software. As a programmer he designs and builds new technology for Artists working with Audio and Video. Specializing in finished products for Gallery Installation and Live Performance, his work has been featured in some of the most well known spaces in the world and web.