Arts Management and Technology Laboratory

Amber Johnson is an Associate Professor of Simulation and Game Development at Wake Tech Community College. She has worked in the game industry as an artist and level designer since 2007. She began teaching at Wake Tech in 2014, developing a curriculum that utilizes modern game asset creation techniques. She currently teaches courses in digital art, game programming, photogrammetry, tech art, and VR. On top of teaching, she does freelance work in photogrammetry and 3d renderings. At SONA, Amber presented her project "Crafting the Unreal", which reimagines Edgar Allan Poe's Ligeia as an immersive surrealist stop-motion VR experience by combining the tactile, dreamlike aesthetics of traditional stop-motion animation with the interactivity of VR. see more at amt-lab.org

Donor advised funds - what are they? How are they being used? And what innovations are these peculiar giving vehicles introducing to the field of philanthropy? In this episode of Tech in the Arts, Lead Research Ian Hawthorne sits down with Rebecca Jacobs, head of community funds at CharityVest, a young, digitally native DAF sponsor. See more at amt-lab.org

A shocking headline about SXSW's music portion set the internet buzzing. Are big festivals on the decline, or are they simply evolving? Tune in as we break down the changes. See more at amt-lab.org

Dr. Stephen Neely, an associate professor at Carnegie Mellon University, specializes in Dalcroze Eurhythmics and explores the profound connection between music and embodied experiences. He discusses how modern interaction design needs to pivot towards a user-centric approach, fostering authentic engagement rather than superficial ones. The conversation also features intriguing topics like the authenticity of AI in art, the emotional landscape of everyday interactions, and the importance of integrating feelings with rational thoughts for a deeper understanding of experiences.

Spotify’s new deal with Universal Music Group could revolutionize the music industry by enhancing engagement with superfans. The podcast explores the rise of lossless audio trends and how streaming platforms are reshaping listening experiences. The challenges independent artists face in gaining visibility are highlighted, alongside the economic pressures of monetization. Listeners learn about the importance of legal knowledge for musicians navigating this evolving landscape and the necessity of engaging audiences through innovative strategies.

As we step into a new year and new presidential administration, the media and technology landscape faces some significant shifts. While AI companies partner with major media outlets to train their models, social media platforms make changes that leave users in seeking decentralized platforms. In this Let's Talk episode of the Tech in the Arts Podcast, AMT Lab's Lead Researcher, Ian Hawthorne, and Chief Editor, Hannah Brainard, dive into the latest headlines. see more at amt-lab.org

What are the latest AI-powered tools transforming the market for art and cultural goods? In this Let's Talk episode of the Tech in the Arts podcast, AMT Lab's Executive Director, Dr. Brett Ashley Crawford, and Lead Researcher, Ian Hawthorne, explore cutting-edge platforms like NALA, Blendbox, Spines, and Encore—and how these innovations are reshaping the way we create and consume art. see more at amt-lab.org

In this episode of Tech in the Arts, AMT Lab Lead Researcher Ian Hawthorne sits down with Stewart Urist, General Manager of the Pittsburgh Public Theater, to discuss their transition to Sage Intacct, a cloud-based financial management software. They delve into the challenges of migrating from a legacy system, the benefits of automation and AI in financial processes, and how tools like Sage can empower nonprofit organizations to streamline operations and improve budget transparency. Whether you're considering a software transition or just curious about nonprofit financial management, this episode offers valuable insights for organizations of all sizes. Check out show notes and more episodes at https://amt-lab.org/podcasts-interviews

In this episode of the Tech in the Arts podcast, Keith Eich shares insights from his career journey with AMT Lab's Technology Manager, Jinghong Gong, exploring his experience at NBCUniversal, the founding of Hulu, and his transition from media to legal tech and public service. Keith Eich is an experienced media and technology executive with over 20 years of expertise in innovation and product development. He served as Director of Digital Distribution Operations at NBCUniversal from 2004 - 2011, playing a key role in deals like the original Hulu partnership. After his time in media, he transitioned to LegalTech, leading product development for a startup that revolutionized consumer access to legal services. Keith is a Carnegie Mellon graduate and holds an MBA from USC. He currently serves as a City Councilman and former Mayor of La Cañada Flintridge. Check out show notes and more episodes at https://amt-lab.org/podcasts-interviews

What happened to the AI bill SB-1047? And how can artists advocate for themselves amid technological changes? In this Let's Talk episode of the Tech in the Arts Podcast, AMT Lab's Chief Editor of Research, Hannah Brainard, and Lead Researcher, Ian Hawthorne, dive into the recent developments in AI policy and its impact on artists.