Building a living archive:

The Trajectory of the Associação Cultural Videobrasil

Abstract

This article analyzes the trajectory of the Associação Cultural Videobrasil in the constitution and preservation of its collection of audiovisual and multimedia works, composed of pieces featured at the Videobrasil Festival (nowadays Bienal SESC_Videobrasil). Based on literature review, documentary analysis, and interviews, the study examines historical milestones, strategies adopted, and challenges faced by the institution regarding technological obsolescence and the absence of public policies for video preservation in Brazil. The main findings indicate that, despite limited resources and media instability, Videobrasil developed its own methodologies aligned with international standards and consolidated a unique collection in the Global South. Its trajectory exemplifies the role of small- and medium-sized cultural institutions in safeguarding peripheral and ephemeral artistic narratives.