Web Browser as Platform for Audiovisual Performances

The present study aims to address the following research question: how to create a tool for audiovisual performance, allowing for real-time usage of shared online visual resources, which can be customizable, and used across a variety of different hardware platforms? To address this issue, we have developed AVVX (AudioVisual Vector eXchange), a novel application for audiovisual performances, based on open web technologies such as HTML5, JavaScript and SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). This paper contextualizes AVVX with related work and technologies, and then presents the design and development of the software. Taking as a starting point a workshop conducted with AVVX, the project has been evaluated by means of a questionnaire and user tests. The results of the tests indicate that the web browser, together with open web technologies, can provide a foundation for a customizable, content-sharing and multi-platform approach to audiovisual performance.