How old is the practice of time-based media conservation according to Joanna Phillips?

The practice of time-based media conservation is indeed considered fairly new, particularly beginning in the late 1990s. This timeframe is significant as it marks the growing recognition of the unique challenges posed by time-based media such as film, video, and digital art. Unlike more traditional forms of art, the ephemeral nature of time-based media requires specific methods and contemporary approaches for preservation and conservation.

As technology evolved rapidly during this period, it prompted conservators and institutions to develop new frameworks and guidelines to address the complexities of preserving time-based works. The late 1990s saw an increase in scholarly discourse and professional practices dedicated to this field, distinguishing it from earlier conservation techniques applied to still images and physical artworks, which had more established histories. This understanding emphasizes the relative youth of time-based media conservation in the broader context of art preservation.