Real‑Time 3D for Immersive Art with TouchDesigner

What is this workshop about?

Step into the world of real‑time 3D visual creation with this introductory TouchDesigner workshop focused on immersive art and live visuals. Designed for artists and creative technologists, this session explores how 3D environments can be built, manipulated, and performed live for concerts, installations, and audiovisual experiences.

Participants will be introduced to TouchDesigner’s interface and core 3D tools while developing an understanding of how real‑time visual systems function. Whether you’re new to TouchDesigner or beginning to explore immersive art or performance‑based visuals, this workshop offers hands‑on experience and foundational techniques for creating expressive real‑time work.
The course is led by Kyle Evans, Managing Director at dadageek in Austin TX, and Professor of Immersive Media at the University of Texas. His instruction combines technical expertise with real-world applications, making this a valuable opportunity for anyone working in digital media.

What is TouchDesigner?

TouchDesigner is a node‑based visual programming platform used by artists, designers, and technologists to create real‑time graphics, generative systems, and interactive experiences. It is a cornerstone tool in contemporary creative technology, supporting everything from 3D rendering and video processing to audio‑reactive visuals and immersive installations.

What will I learn?

Participants in this workshop will walk away with:

• An introduction to the TouchDesigner interface and workflow
• Core concepts of working in TouchDesigner’s 3D environment
• Techniques for real‑time 3D object manipulation
• Foundations of 3D lighting and materials
• Approaches to video post‑processing and visual effects within TouchDesigner

No prior experience with TouchDesigner is required. If these concepts are new to you, this workshop is designed to get you oriented and building quickly.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for:

• Artists interested in learning real‑time 3D and interactive visuals
• Designers and creative technologists exploring immersive media
• Musicians and performers looking to incorporate live visuals
• Students and beginners curious about the intersection of art and technology

The workshop is tailored for newcomers to TouchDesigner and real‑time 3D, though those with some prior experience may still benefit from strengthening foundational skills.

Are there any requirements?

Participants should bring:

• A Windows or Mac laptop
• A 3‑button mouse (scroll wheel required)
• A recent version of TouchDesigner (free to download)

Meet your instructor

Kyle Evans is a new media artist, sound designer, educator, and performer. He is a Professor of Immersive Media in the Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies at the University of Texas in Austin, a founding board member and Managing Director of the digital art educational non-profit dadageek, Artistic Director of the sound-art collective Rolling Ryot, and co-founder of the immersive art studio dadaLab. He has produced and presented a wide range of new media art performances and immersive installation artworks throughout North America and Europe at venues such as MUTEK San Francisco, Transmediale in Berlin, the International Computer Music Conference at Columbia University, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin, Vancouver New Music Festival, and the GLI.TC/H festival in Chicago. His writings and artworks have been presented in several academic and popular publications, including the Leonardo Music Journal, Computer Music Magazine, Neural Magazine, and Popular Science Magazine.

• Artist Website
• University of Texas at Austin – Assistant Professor of Practice, Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies
• dadaLab – Co-Founder
• dadageek – Managing Director and Founding Board Member
• Rolling Ryot – Artistic Director and Founding Board Member
  

Presenting Partners

This workshop is presented in partnership with dadageek and the Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies at the University of Texas at Austin.

dadageek is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting immersive artists and electronic musicians. Our mission is to provide education and foster a vibrant community for those innovating at the intersection of art, interactive media, and technology. We believe in the power of creativity and collaboration, and our community is a testament to that belief. Filled with talented and passionate technologists, our members are eager to share their knowledge and inspire others. Through workshops, events, and resources, we empower creators to push the boundaries of their craft and explore new frontiers in art and technology.

The Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies (AET) equips graduates with the technological mindset needed to create meaningful experiences in both physical and digital spaces. Our Bachelor of Science degree is designed alongside industry partners and is updated frequently with new courses to keep students on the leading edge of emerging creative technologies.
AET offers a unique opportunity for design and tech enthusiasts to expand their knowledge while embracing the vibrant spirit of Austin.

Join our community of creators, leaders, and educators who redefine and enhance the future of creative technologies and human experiences. https://designcreativetech.utexas.edu/department-arts-and-entertainment-technologies

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