Preservation


Partnering with the organizations that own the original collections, BAVC works to preserve and digitize precious works of media art and other cultural artifacts. Since 1994, BAVC has preserved over 6,000 hours of videotape. And in December 2004, BAVC added audio preservation to its services by preserving a significant portion of the audio collection of The Kitchen. Of course, BAVC does more than simply save these works from permanent loss, we also digitize them, making them accessible to larger numbers of current and future audiences.

There is no question that digital media has revolutionized how we view art and performance. Today it is relatively cheap and easy to capture digital media of a performance or cultural event (the explosion of podcasting stands as testament to that). But while cultural institutions are eagerly picking up technology to preserve and distribute their work, they are largely experimenting without a set of standards or technical best practices.

BAVC is the only non-profit preservation organization leading the field in developing preservation standards for the future and providing hands-on expertise to practitioners as they implement the new standards. In 2003, we produced PLAYBACK, an interactive DVD that invites users to view the technical practices of video preservation and to experience the complex decision-making process artists, conservators and video engineers engage in when the reconstruction of video artwork occurs. And in 2006, BAVC began working with the Tisch School of the Arts, NYU as well as The Getty Research Institute to develop curriculum and training resources for their students and staff.

BAVC Preservation Services Available:

• Client Consultation
• Cleaning and Transfer from: 1/2" Open Reel, 3/4" Tapes, VHS Tapes
• Transfer to: Digital Betacam, DVCam, Betacam SP, 3/4", SVHS/VHS, DVD
• Logged documentation of signal imperfection
• Image/Audio Correction Additional Services: Restoration, Title Slates

Rates:

BAVC Preservation rates are low because they are subsidized. Please contact our Preservation Department for consultation and pricing. We'll provide you with a preservation scheme that meets your archival needs and budget.

Please call 415.558.2161 or email preservation@bavc.org for questions or to discuss your project and get an estimate. We look forward to serving you.