At the end of the course, the student has gained familiarity with the main theoretical issues related to the practices of archiving, preservation, restoration, and valorization of audiovisual heritage. The student is able to contextualize these issues within a historical perspective and is knowledgeable about the new trends arising from the digital transition. They are capable of critically situating the theoretical models and practices covered in the course within the context of cultural policies and commercial strategies that impact the fields of cinema and television.
It is desirable, but not strictly necessary, for students to already have knowledge of the history and languages of cinema and television.
The teaching is conducted through frontal lectures. The participatory discussion of case studies in the classroom is encouraged.
The final course examination is conducted in an oral format, and the evaluation is expressed on a scale of thirty. The interview consists of three questions related to the course program to assess the understanding of the concepts discussed in the bibliographical texts, the ability to navigate the field covered by the course, and the critical application of the acquired tools. The grade will be averaged with the one obtained for the project work in the "Photographic Archives" module of the course "Theories and Archives of Visual Cultural Heritage."
The course explores the practices of conservation, preservation, restoration, reconstruction, and enhancement of audiovisual materials.
It delves into their historical foundations and discusses the theoretical models that underlie them. The course focuses on both the long-standing tradition of film archives, which has been the subject of extensive debate over time, and the more recent projects aimed at recovering and revitalizing television content from various historical periods.
The unique hybrid nature of audiovisual heritage is subject to reflection, as it encompasses both artistic and cultural dimensions and an industrial and commercial vocation. The influence of these different dimensions on content archiving and recovery policies is examined.
Special attention is devoted to the reflection on the technological and material aspects of media, as well as the obsolescence of formats, and the challenges of digitization and access to content.
The teacher's communications to the students of the course are sent via email through the e-learning platform, so all students must promptly register for it. The program is valid for both attending and non-attending students. However, non-attending students are required to study the materials uploaded on the e-learning platform, which are optional readings for attending students. Erasmus students and students with PDP or PEI are invited to contact the teacher at the beginning of the course.
