Conserving Software-Based Artworks

Software-based artworks pose many challenges to conservators charged with their care. Tom Ensom and Chris King will be visiting the Sussex Humanities Lab to introduce approaches developed through their recent work, with a particular focus on disk imaging and emulation techniques.

The long-term preservation of software-based artworks is challenging to negotiate. Such artworks may involve complex systems of interconnected components and actors, aging technologies with a variable degree of significance, and boundaries which extend into their surrounding environment. Disk imaging and emulation techniques have become increasingly important tools in the stabilisation, analysis and presentation of software-based artworks.

Tom and Chris are time-based media conservators who work closely with Tate's collection of software-based artworks. They will be supported in this workshop by SHL's own Alex Peverett.

Who is this for?

The workshop is aimed primarily at humanities researchers, but is open to all. Participants from outside of the University of Sussex are also welcome. The workshop will aim to accommodate all levels of experience.

Do I need to have been to the other workshops in the series?

No – this workshop functions as a standalone. You can explore past workshops in the series on the SHL blog.