Materializing the intangible: the documentation of Luís Vaz 73 (1975), by Jorge Peixinho and Ernesto de Sousa

Abstract

This paper aims to critically review the documentation process of the performance-based collaborative artwork Luís Vaz 73 (1975), created by the visual artist and performer Ernesto de Sousa (1921-1988), and the composer, pianist and conductor, Jorge Peixinho (1940-1995). The documentation process was developed in four phases: identification of the conservation problem, which contextualizes the documentation process; gathering of documentation, published and unpublished; documentation production, which includes interviews to relevant actors; and assessment and systematization, which organizes all relevant information and discusses the main weaknesses of the process. This documentation methodology opens a new perspective based on the relationship between the production of documentation and its application in the (re)presentation of the work This methodology looks for a reflexive approach, where the main challenges of the documentation process are reflected upon, thus informing future generations about this process.

Keywords

• Documentation
• Performance art
• Conservator-restorer
• Intangible
• Collaboration