Organisation: British Film Institute
Principal investigator: Kieron Webb
Project overview
Film and video collections across the UK are vast and are held within national and regional archives, universities and government bodies. Unlike other media, these collections have not benefitted from applied heritage science.
Effective protection of moving image collections requires thorough research into their material composition and status, a need that has not been met due to the lack of a dedicated centre or infrastructure in the UK. Consequently, moving image technologies remain significantly less understood than much older artefacts. This project will establish the Moving Image Conservation Research Laboratory (MICRL), revolutionising the conservation and understanding of film and video collections.
Project purpose
This project aims to establish the MICRL facility with state-of-the-art instrumentation including fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and raman spectrometers, X-ray fluorescence and microfading testers. Access to this equipment will enhance the understanding of material composition and degradation in moving image collections.
This pioneering approach will enable informed conservation strategies and facilitate accurate reproduction of historical colour systems, safeguarding and promoting the cultural significance of moving images.
Project impacts
By establishing the MICRL, the project aims to catalyse collaborative research efforts across national and international sectors, transforming conservation practices, enhancing audience engagement and ensuring the long-term preservation of moving image heritage. This initiative will set new standards in heritage science application for film and video materials, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange among heritage institutions, industry stakeholders and filmmakers worldwide.