Memory in digital spaces as disputed territory. An analysis from Hackitectura case

Abstract

The way we organise our individual and collective memories is increasingly mediated by the Internet. The Internet demands constant investment in time and money that is often beyond the capacity of projects whose online activity has ceased. This article explores alternative forms for ensuring the continuation of online memory and how these might be achieved. To evaluate this issue, the study focuses on the case of Hackitectura (2003–2010), a collective of activists, artists, programmers, and architects whose work was exhibited in national cultural institutions. When the author reengaged in research into Hackitectura in 2018 it was found that the Internet-based digital memory of the group’s work had vanished, despite Hackitectura’s once very prominent digital presence. The article concludes by presenting a number of hypotheses on potential strategies drawn ̉from our collective memories to deal with the relentless avalanche of data landing on our digital spaces.