Timed to FMX in Germany, Foundry announces Google Cloud Platform as the underlying cloud service provider for Athera. Known in beta as “Project Elara,” Athera is cloud-based technology aiming to transform visual effects workflows.
Craig Rodgerson, Chief Executive Officer at Foundry, said: “The partnership with Google has enabled us to build an industry-leading tool in cloud technology. Google Cloud’s capabilities provide Foundry with the infrastructure needed to scale up Athera and realise our goal of providing an end-to-end cloud services solution for VFX studios everywhere.”
Athera will be hosted on Google Cloud Platform, incorporating Google’s GPU, networking and storage capabilities. It enables VFX studios and freelancers to move their entire pipeline into the cloud. Athera centralizes storage, creative tools and pipeline in one place, giving users on-demand and flexible access to their preferred industry tools, including the Nuke family, Katana, Modo, Mari, Cara VR, V-Ray, Houdini and Blender.
“Many of our customers have shared their enthusiasm about how cloud technology can transform their workflows. Working alongside Google Cloud, we will be able to open up new doors for studios and freelancers to access industry leading tools from any location, on flexible terms which are better suited to the ebb and flow of their business needs,” said Jon Wadelton.
Adam Massey, Director of Strategic Technology Partners at Google Cloud, commented: “We are excited to be partnering with Foundry on the development of Athera. We are looking forward to seeing how Foundry’s capabilities can open up new opportunities for the VFX industry.“
In addition to its networking and storage capabilities, Google Cloud Platform provides essential security for its users. Premier media and entertainment cyber security firm, Independent Security Evaluators has been engaged to provide the security audit for Athera. ISE performs rigorous, manual security assessments, and serve as trusted advisors to many of the major industry content owners. They have advised industry associations Motion Picture Association of America and Content Delivery & Security Association on numerous initiatives, primarily related to application security.
Studios and artists can request an Athera trail now ahead of the commercial launch. Pricing information available here.
[Source: Foundry.com]
