The FOCAL International Awards is an event that has been created to celebrate the exceptional use of archival footage and its significant contributions to the creative and cultural industries. From inspiring documentaries to heartwarming commercials, the use of archival footage has the power to evoke emotions, bring stories to life, and connect with audiences in an instant. The competition aims to recognize and reward the very best use of archival footage in the industry and showcase the impact it has on our world.

The competition is not just limited to the creative industries. It also acknowledges and celebrates the best practices in archive restoration and preservation. The archival industry is filled with professionals who are passionate about preserving and protecting our cultural heritage and it is essential to recognize their hard work and dedication. The awards ceremony is an opportunity to bring together the best and brightest minds in the industry and pay tribute to their achievements.

The 2023 edition of the FOCAL International Awards will be hosted in the historic Grand Connaught Rooms in London, a fitting location for an event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the world. The event is expected to attract a large number of industry professionals and will be a great opportunity for networking and recognition.

Further information about the FOCAL International Awards 2023 competition will be released in March, but it is already shaping up to be a must-attend event. It will celebrate the power of archival footage and its impact on our world, and a tribute to the people who make it all possible.

Preservation & Migration Seminar 2023 on June 21st at 15:00 CEST, online, free access.

The Preservation Life Cycle

Preserving audiovisual content is not a linear way with a starting point and an end; it’s a cycle requiring continuous care and long-term planning. Migration to digital is a significant step; however, digital collections are not without danger. Preservation has to be both permanent and sustainable. How can this work?

A preservation “system” for providing all the necessary and desirable functions needs resources deployed (e.g. storage), maintained and monitored, and requires oversight to manage appropriate interventions.

This seminar will provide insight into the questions of digital obsolescence, assets protection, permanent preservation and its costs, and decisions on the fate of physical materials after they migrate to digital—also an opportunity to share and gather thoughts from panellists and participants.

We would like to extend a warm invitation to you for an unforgettable summer party at the Terrace Pavilion, situated at the iconic House of Commons. FOCAL is hosting this event, providing an ideal opportunity to enjoy a memorable evening with friends, colleagues, clients, and new connections.

Upon arrival at the Terrace Pavilion, you will be welcomed with refreshing drinks and canapés. The venue boasts unparalleled views of the River Thames and the historic House of Parliament, making it a stunning location for networking with like-minded individuals in a beautiful setting.

Your ticket price includes: 

- 2 drinks per person (3 for FOCAL Members)
- Canapés

This is an amazing chance to unwind, enjoy good company, and create lasting memories in one of London's most iconic locations.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary event.

Date: Thursday 13th July, 18:30 onwards

Location: House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Price: £50 (FOCAL Members get an additional drink included in their ticket)

Purchase your tickets 

The International Association of Sound and Audiovisual Archives (IASA) and International Council for Traditional Music (ICTM) invite you to participate in a joint event to be held from 11-15 September, 2023 at the Istanbul University in Istanbul, Türkiye.

This joint event comprises the 54th IASA Annual Conference and the 4th ICTM Forum in which, for the first time, ICTM and IASA join forces in a shared scholarly gathering. It promises to be a wonderful opportunity for collaboration between the organisations and their many shared interests.

The event will be hybrid, combining in-person and online components. Istanbul University will be the main venue and we will also offer online access to significant portions of the event for those who are not able to attend in person. The IASA Conference will take place during the first four days. The ICTM - IASA Forum will be featured on the last, fifth day of the event, with the aim of bringing together both IASA and ICTM members/representatives.

Call for papers: https://2023.iasa-web.org/call-for-presentations

The FIAT/IFTA World Conference 2023 will take place in Locarno, Switzerland, from the 18th of October to the 20th of October, with a pre-conference day on the 17th of October with workshops and commission meetings.

Don't forget to save the date and join us this year for the first FIAT/IFTA World Conference in Europe since 2019!