Photo Credits: SXSW

The 2024 SXSW Conference and Festivals commenced last weekend, March 8th, bringing in a wave of new trends and emerging themes until March 16th. The multifaceted event spans the realms of tech, film, music, and media, bringing an exciting journey into the future with this year’s theme. Here’s a look at some of the standout trends, topics, and events to watch out for at this year’s conference. 

Music and Tech

Photo Credits: Long Center

Tom Webster, the creative mind behind Squeak E. X (Squeak E. Clean Studios’ immersive experience division), has collaborated with artists and The Long Center to introduce “Eclipsing,” a binaural sound walk experience. This project exemplifies the growing trend of immersive experiences at SXSW, offering attendees a unique and captivating way to interact with art and technology.

The Eclipsing Soundwalk is a site-specific experience that fuses synchronized narration, immersive theater and dynamic soundscapes produced by Point A, in collaboration with astrophysicists, the local community, and Squeak E. Clean Studios,” says Webster. “The walk offers immersive experiences in public spaces with dynamic soundscapes and live interactions akin to a mesmerizing eclipse moment, made possible by the Simons Foundation ‘In the Path of Totality’ initiative and in partnership with The Long Center,” he added.

 

Artificial Intelligence and the Road to 2050

Photo Credits: SXSW

Discussions at SXSW 2024 will shift towards delving into the global and societal implications of AI. Up-to-the-minute conversations will spotlight critical areas such as climate solutions, the impact on electric vehicles, and the ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI. Check out the “The Debate: Your Future City” panel presented by the University of Manchester, UK, where expert panelists will lead a citizens’ forum debate to design a better future for all across the arts, tech, policy, sustainability, and more. 

 

Film & TV

Photo Credits: SXSW

SXSW aims to explore the current and future landscapr of the film and television industry. Focusing on the business aspect, discussions range from distribution and financing to exploring representation and navigating the ever-changing nature of film and TV. Make sure to visit the “Diversity, AI, and the Future of Hollywood” panel on March 12, 2024, to discuss the myths and realities of bias in AI-generating content, the need for and limitations of diversity programs to democratize creators’ access to the industry, and how Hollywood can make creative content more diverse and inclusive moving forward.

Events

Photo Credits: TBD Post

In collaboration with Gay Guthrey and Singing Serpent, The-Artery, brought an immersive experience on Friday, March 8th for attendees beyond the conventional conference setting. This event amplified the spirit of SXSW by bringing together friends, filmmakers, and creatives for an evening of live music, good food, crafted cocktails, and renowned brews from Austin Beerworks. It was a great example of how both official and unofficial events contribute to the dynamic and collaborative environment that defines SXSW. 

 

As the 2024 SXSW Conference and Festivals continue to unfold, the creative energy in Austin is palpable. From the immersive sound experiences brought to life by Squeak E. Clean Studios to the thought-provoking discussions on AI, climate solutions, and diversity in Hollywood, this year’s event helps attendees stay at the cutting edge of technology, music, and film.