Can a cultural experience that had been lost be regained? What is the relationship between originality and authenticity? How can modern technology better serve cultural preservation? And what are the underlying problems of experiencing art in the context of mass tourism, rising water, and the ecosystem of the lagoon? These and many other crucial considerations for Venice are being explored by the ingenious work of a pioneering group of artists, technicians and conservators based in Madrid under the direction of Adam Lowe. From an extensive recording of the island of San Giorgio Maggiore to the high-resolution recording of paintings, sculptures, textiles and manuscripts, Factum Foundation is monitoring change and drawing attention to new threats to the city. In this talk, Adam will draw on examples of his group’s work in Venice and beyond that explore preservation as a creative act.