This presentation aims to discuss the ongoing National Research Project funded by the European Union SAFE (the SustainAbility of italian Film hEritage: archival infrastructures, digital preservation, and stewardship Strategies) and its outcomes. The non-theatrical Italian film archive community is daily engaged in dealing with highly complex and internally diverse issues: on the one hand, aligned to international standards or part of recognised federations, on the other and not infrequently on the fringes of institutional, legislative and governmental procedures and frameworks.
To adequately explore the main research questions around three axes - archival infrastructures, digital preservation, and stewardship strategies -, the methodological framework for this research draws on three key areas of study: critical infrastructure along with archival and museum studies; digital film and critical digital humanities; and media archaeology combined with media sustainability. SAFE is carrying out three macro-actions of applied research: monitoring and analysing the infrastructural sustainability of preservation centres; surveying digital preservation practices and protocols, collecting and sharing stewardship strategies. A digital atlas addresses these intentions, being a tool derived from the digital humanities’ methodological framework through data visualization. Such exchanges are crucial for building a resilient and sustainable future for film heritage.
Beyond technical solutions, the SAFE initiative emphasizes the role of archives in fostering cultural memory and community engagement. By addressing environmental, cultural, and ethical dimensions, the project offers a holistic approach to the challenges of the digital age. Its outcomes will not only benefit Italian film archives but also contribute to global efforts to safeguard cultural heritage in an era of rapid technological and ecological change.
