Resonix: Prototyping VR for Fostering Remote Collaboration in Sound Art Curation

Abstract

Sound art is an emerging and critical field in contemporary art that challenges traditionally visually dominated practices by integrating sound into participant experiences in exhibitions. However, interviews with curators and artists have revealed significant challenges in enabling efficient remote collaboration across locations. These challenges include providing an accurate understanding of spatial auditory effects and ensuring high flexibility in controlling their presentation. This study developed RESONIX, a VR-based solution that incorporates four core features: a modular simulation toolkit, a sound spatial display, a sound-time manager, and a role manager. These features aim to enhance remote collaboration in sound art curation. Preliminary user testing revealed that, while RESONIX requires more time compared to traditional online meeting, it significantly enhances collaborative audio control and editing, improves the fidelity of audio experiences in remote settings, and optimizes sound-based curation workflows. These findings lay a foundation for further refinement and large-scale validation of the system.