Contents:
- Introduction
- Objectives
- Document Structure
- Common Problems
- Stability of Equipment: 1. Media 2. Technological Components
- Decision Guidelines
- Restoration Decisions
- Bibliography.
This guide outlines the preservation problems technology based art works present, with special attention paid to the ethics involved when determining what preservation action to undertake (specifically integrity and authenticity). It begins by presenting seven case studies. It then goes on to offer guidance on different conservation strategies, provides some history on media types (audio/video analog as well as digital) and common technology components used in such art works. It ends by providing access to a decision tree (to be used with a particular software available on the site) with which curators can decide on a proper conservation approach.
This resource is very specific to the preservation of media art works and is designed to serve people who may not have a strong technical background in media or digital preservation. Its emphasis on the ethics involved is particularly interesting. The case studies are very good at illustrating how difficult the preservation of this kind of material is and thus, the site is also of interest to those curious about this special preservation domain.