[ Workshops ]

NMC [Workshops]: MXR — Real-Time 3D Engine for Live Performance
Feb
22

NMC [Workshops]: MXR — Real-Time 3D Engine for Live Performance

New Media Contemporary is excited to collaborate with @_mxr_3d to bring this hands-on workshop to Dallas! 

MXR is a no-code real-time 3D engine designed for performers, designers, and visual artists who want to create responsive 3D visuals without scripting. Perfect for beginners with no coding experience, or VJs and video artists already working in Resolume, TouchDesigner, Blender, Unreal, or Unity looking to level up with live 3D and AI-powered workflows. This workshop is your gateway to building visuals for concerts, Projection mapping, XR stages, virtual production, and immersive art installations. Build real-time scenes using 3D assets, particle systems, and custom shaders. Map MIDI controllers to animate visuals on the fly. Master integrating protocols like Spout, OSC, and DMX. Create audio-reactive 3D environments and explore live AI-generated visuals that respond to performance in real time.
 

[ What's Included ]

Your $30 ticket includes a free MXR license. You'll leave with the MXR software, a complete project file, and the skills to build your own systems. Plus, opportunities to showcase your work at New Media Contemporary!


[ What to Bring: ]

only compatible with — Windows 10 laptop with 4GB RAM and RTX 2080 (RTX 3080 recommended). Download MXR from Steam beforehand. Individual download codes will be sent via email a day prior to the workshop.

 

WORKSHOP OUTLINE

  • Focus: Creating Real-time scenes and FX inside MXR.
    Example: https://youtu.be/YUxH5-7J7mg?si=rIhQqe9-h7eGLevy

    • Shape FX + Rotation Tools

    • Particle Systems

    • Shaders (Hologram & Iridescent)

    • Basic Lighting

    • The GLTF Workflow: *Why GLTF is preferred over FBX in MXR 

    • PAK Import

      • Provide PAK example files

    • Real-time Shaders

    • Tentacle & Panners

  • Focus: Mapping professional protocols to control imported 3D variables.

    • The Node Logic: Node Basics, LFOs, Audio Analysis and Random

    • Midi Programming

      • Detect Mini Button / Channel

    • Spout 

      • Output

      • Spout Input

      • Capture Card Support

    • Advanced Protocols:

      • OSC: Synchronizing external software (like Ableton or TouchOSC) to drive MXR particle systems.

      • DMX/Art-Net: Routing lighting desk data to trigger FX

  • Focus: Building a hybrid project using both GLTF and UE5 PAK assets.

    • Midi Control

      • Midi x Post Processing

      • Midi x Particles

      • Midi x Custom Shaders

      • Audio analysis for Strobes

    • Output

      • Spout vs Direct from MXR

 

ABOUT

Eric Wagliardo is a Creative Director and Technologist who builds futuristic landscapes where immersive media seamlessly enhances the physical world. With over 23 years of experience at top agencies like Droga5 and MediaMonks, he is the founder of &Pull and MXR, a real-time 3D design tool for live events. MXR’s technology has powered visuals for the iconic Quasar stage and major artists including Barry Can't Swim, Deadmau5, and Kaskade. Eric’s portfolio also includes the world’s first multi-user AR music app for Childish Gambino and large-scale kinetic installations for Matt Damon’s Water.org, launching Coachella Island in Fortnite, bringing broadcast AR to Coachella’s Main Stage and an AR exhibit at the Dallas Museum of Art.

View Event →
NMC [Workshops]: Contemporary Performance Art—Exploring Technology as a Liminal Space
Sep
7
to Sep 21

NMC [Workshops]: Contemporary Performance Art—Exploring Technology as a Liminal Space

This three week workshop examines how technology creates a speculative and transformative space for performers. We will explore key questions, such as how the camera mediates the relationship between performer and audience, and how technology influences and reshapes performative actions. Through concept ideation, creative mapping, hands-on exercises and discussions, participants will experiment with strategies including video projection, performing for and against the camera, and integrating technology into their practice. The workshop culminates in a series of short performances, showcasing each participant's exploration of technology as a liminal space in performance art.

View Event →