Built in 1996, the M. Smith Griffith Auditorium at the Georgia Museum of Art hosts lectures, meetings, conferences, film screenings, chorales and other performances throughout the year.
“The auditorium now supports both recording and livestreaming of events, making it possible to reach broader audiences and provide remote access to our programming,” says Walker. “Additionally, we’ve added accessibility features, such as the Listen application, to ensure better audio for all attendees, including those with hearing impairments. These upgrades mean that both presenters and audience members will enjoy clearer visuals, improved sound and a more engaging and inclusive event experience.” Previously, the museum offered ListenIR assistive- listening headsets that use line-of-sight infrared technology, meaning any obstruction to the beam can cause audio drop out or interference. It now offers ListenRF, which transmits sound over radio frequency directly to the listener’s headset, as well as ListenWiFi, which allows listeners to use Wi-Fi to stream audio to their smart devices.
Although the space is flexible and available for rentals by university classes, student groups and community organizations, it also needed some updating. Earlier this year, the museum upgraded the technology in the auditorium, opening new opportunities to use the space creatively. “By removing outdated, legacy equipment and streamlining our processes, we aimed to create a more reliable and flexible environment for both current and future programming needs,” says Josh Walker, director of information technology at the museum. With sound and audio quality in mind, the museum purchased a new screen and speakers as well as a Blackmagic ATEM Mini switcher, a live production tool that allows users to switch between multiple video inputs, mix audio and incorporate visual media or effects in real-time. Athens-based technology firm TSAV installed three new motorized pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, capable of panning horizontally and vertically with 20x zoom, to capture high-definition footage of both the stage and audience. TSAV also placed three beamforming microphones on the ceiling, which “beam” the focus at the most prominent sound source while suppressing atmospheric noise. This means that a speaker can walk and talk around the stage untethered, and questions or comments from audience members can be easily amplified. “With these technological improvements, the museum can now record and edit a wide variety of content, including training videos, symposia and lectures, with much greater ease and professionalism,” says Walker. “The ability to livestream events opens up new possibilities for hybrid or fully virtual programming, allowing us to connect with audiences beyond the museum’s walls. The new screen and enhanced sound system also support a wider range of events, from educational presentations to community gatherings, and make the space more versatile for uses such as recording staff training videos.” Resembling a handheld broadcasting studio, the Blackmagic ATEM Mini allows users to create their own live multi-camera video productions. Operators can pan, zoom and switch between cameras or incorporate content such as images, slideshow presentations or films from other inputs. These productions can be streamed live to a virtual audience or recorded to distribute later. This technology, in combination with the auditorium’s other upgrades, greatly enhances the museum’s video teleconferencing capabilities.
Curious to see and hear the upgrades for yourself? The museum will host film screenings of: “Midnight in Paris” on August 28 “Coco Before Chanel” on October 16
“Joan Mitchell: Portrait of an Abstract Painter,” scheduled for September 11, offers a fascinating look into the life of Mitchell, whose painting “Close” will receive extensive conservation work in an open-access lab that begins August 12. All films begin at 7 p.m. and are free to attend.
Interested in renting the upgraded auditorium for your event?
Nonprofits, including University of Georgia organizations and departments, receive discounts. Contact us for more information.
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