The 45th SIGGRAPH conference concluded last Thursday with over 16,500 attendees from 88 countries including Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the USA. DigiBC was on hand for the jam-packed week where close to 700 papers, courses, lectures, installations, and artworks were shared, along with almost 1,000 speakers participating.
Things kicked off with the SIGGRAPH Business Symposium taking place on August 11 & 12. The was an incredible two days that had the most diverse set of speakers and participants (237 people from 22 countries) exploring the past, present, and future of computer graphics. A fascinating range of topics were explored including big data, machine learning, AI, and emerging business models. DigiBC’s Executive Director, Brenda Bailey, was in attendance and did a wonderful job as the MC and panel moderator. Congratulations to the organizers who did an excellent job – Adele Newton, Angela Pan, Cam Wind, Chase Denomme, Elaine He, Jessica Glass, Kial Natale, Melissa Dex Guzman, Patrick Pennefather, Paul Salvini, Ross Waring, Shirin Escarcha, Vivian Tang, and all the CDM volunteers.
The Exhibition played host to nearly 160 companies showcasing the latest technologies, products, and services. Remarkably, nearly one-quarter of the exhibitors were presenting for the first time due to the dramatic increase in the amount of new technology. In addition, attendees got to see installations from around the world in the Experience Hall and the brand-new Immersive Pavilion, which featured a VR museum, Vrcade, Village, and the Computer Animation Festival VR Theater.
The conference was the most successful edition in Vancouver yet and attendees enjoyed an incredible week full of inspiration and learning. In case you’re wondering, the date for SIGGRAPH 2019 has already been set so mark your calendars for July 28-August 1 in Los Angeles!