La comunicación, una herramienta clave en la restauración profesional

Abstract

Mexico has a diverse cultural heritage found in equally diverse contexts, one of them is inside rural or urban zone communities with shared specific social dynamics. The Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), receives applications from groups to conserve one or more objects. Communication is crucial to know the social interaction between society and objects. An optimal communication includes a mindful hearing to understand the needs and interests of the community and therefore to plan conservative strategies and congruent restoration options to keep the social practices and preserve the object at the same time. Adding anthropologist, ethnologist or sociologist to the conservation work group is important. However, there is a unique dialogue between conservator and community representatives. To have an effective conversation is needed to consider certain aspects of the social context and some guidelines to really listen to the communities and also communicate our perspective as conservators. This text is developed from the author’s professional experience inside the INAH and in the private sector.