This reader is the result of a cycle of seminars and an exhibition developed by the Iuav University of Venice around the notion of heritage. The publication focuses on issues related to the status of heritage in the contemporary; the study and use of
archives; restoration strategies; and heritage as a place of transformation.
Nowadays, the notion of Heritage is besieged by multiple perspectives. Thoughts, materials,
architectures and cities are all parts of heritage, a claim that stirs reactions, as well as creates expectations of the materials themselves. These must produce memory and future, restore monetary wealth and culture, tell ethical stories and extol aesthetics. However, the siege can also become an orchestra rehearsal in which the reactions and expectations call into question the successful performance of the symphony. An orchestra rehearsal (like the one in Fellini's famous film of the same name) is an opportunity for reflection, for rehearsing a single instrument and verify the harmony it produces with other instruments.
Published following the eponymous's cycle of conferences and exhibition at Palazzo Grimani, Venice, from January 30 to March 20, 2015.
