In the rolling hills of Tuscany, a unique artistic legacy is being safeguarded through an innovative blend of technology and conservation. The Tarot Garden, a monumental sculpture garden created by French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle, is now the subject of a groundbreaking digital framework designed to ensure its long-term preservation. This initiative, led by M. Santana Quintero of the Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS) at Carleton University, is setting a new standard for the conservation of modern and contemporary art.
The project, a collaboration between CIMS, the Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), the Niki Charitable Art Foundation, and the Tarot Garden Foundation, leverages Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create a comprehensive digital archive of the site. This archive includes ortho-rectified images, measured drawings, and a photographic record portfolio, all integrated into a GIS platform. The goal is to support condition monitoring, comparative analysis, and evidence-based decision-making for the conservation of the Tarot Garden.
“GIS is a powerful tool for organizing and analyzing heritage data, but its complexity can limit its accessibility and effectiveness in conservation planning,” Quintero explains. To address this, the project prioritized stakeholder usability, data interoperability, and capacity building. By embedding digital tools into conservation workflows and training local staff in their use, the initiative fosters sustainable stewardship and helps preserve both the tangible and intangible heritage of the Tarot Garden.
The implications of this research extend beyond the art world. In the energy sector, for instance, similar digital frameworks could be employed to monitor and maintain critical infrastructure, such as pipelines and power plants. By integrating GIS with other digital tools, energy companies could enhance their ability to predict and prevent failures, ultimately reducing downtime and improving safety.
Moreover, the interdisciplinary approach taken by the project—involving conservators, documentation specialists, and site stakeholders—highlights the value of collaboration in tackling complex challenges. As Quintero notes, “The work was conducted through an interdisciplinary approach, which allowed us to develop a system that supports condition monitoring, comparative analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.”
The research was published in ‘The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’, known in English as ‘The International Archives of Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’. This publication underscores the broader relevance of the project, as it bridges the gap between cultural heritage preservation and technological innovation.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the lessons learned from the Tarot Garden project could prove invaluable. By embracing digital tools and fostering collaboration, energy companies can enhance their ability to monitor and maintain their assets, ultimately improving efficiency and safety. The Tarot Garden project serves as a testament to the power of innovation in preserving our shared heritage, and its impact will be felt far beyond the world of art.