Colour Knowledge Repository

The PERCEIVE Colour Knowledge Repository (CKR) is an open data management system designed to collect, structure, and openly share colour-related resources in cultural heritage artworks.

From ancient polychrome sculptures to fragile painted surfaces, dyed textiles, and historical films, the repository enables users to share documentation and simulation data on colour changes, as well as data supporting the assessment of deterioration risks.

It also supports sharing of protocols and workflows for preserving coloured collections and protecting them from further deterioration. Designed for collaborative research, the repository brings together colour experts, scientists, museum curators, conservators, exhibition designers and education and communication professionals, working across physical and digital cultural heritage.

Here’s an overview of its functionalities and purpose:

• Design and Purpose: The repository is structured to support the FAIR data principles of Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability of data. The objective is to create a data management environment that supports the entire data lifecycle from acquisition to processing and beyond.
• Data Types and Storage: The repository hosts diverse resources and datasets including 3D models, scientific datasets, high-resolution images, and texts and documentation, relevant to colour knowledge and preservation of colour in art and heritage objects. The repository uses a federated cloud storage approach to handle data, ensuring decentralized and secure data storage across multiple locations.
• Metadata and Documentation: The repository is equipped with an advanced metadata model that allows for rich description and categorization of data. This includes detailed information about data acquisition methods, processing, and analytical techniques used.
• Technical Architecture: The repository is built using InvenioRDM, a framework developed by CERN for building large-scale digital repositories. This choice provides robust data management capabilities and integration with other research tools.

• Functional Capabilities:
  • • Uploading and Managing Data: Users can upload datasets with associated metadata. The system supports batch uploads and metadata-only records linked to external data sources.
    • Searching and Accessing Data: Advanced search functionalities help users to locate datasets efficiently. Users can search by keywords, metadata fields, and use filters to refine results.
    • Exporting and Integrating Data: Data and metadata can be exported in various formats, and the system supports integration via a REST API, enabling automation and interoperability with other platforms.
    • User Management and Customisation: The repository offers personalised accounts where users can manage their data, set privacy settings, and customise their interaction with the system.

• Community Features:
  • • Communities and Collaboration: Users can create and manage communities within the repository, allowing for collaboration and sharing of data among groups. Currently communities have been created to share data and knowledge about colour in PERCEIVE scenarios (colour loss in originally polychrome ancient sculptures, colour changes in paintings and light-sensitive-coloured objects, colour fading of dyed historical garments and textiles and colour in historical photography and films).
    • Role-Based Access Control: Different roles are available for community members, ranging from read-only access to full administrative rights.
    • Security and Compliance: The system adheres to stringent security protocols and compliance standards, including GDPR, to ensure data protection and privacy.
    • Impact and Outreach: The repository aims to enhance the visibility and impact of research in colour knowledge. It supports open science initiatives by making data accessible to a broader audience, thereby fostering collaboration and innovation.
    • Future Developments: Plans include further integration with the PERCEIVE platform and enhancements to user interaction, data visualisation, and analytical capabilities.

The PERCEIVE Colour Knowledge Repository is not just a storage solution but a dynamic platform that enhances the research landscape by enabling more efficient data management, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and driving innovation in the field of heritage science and beyond.

Ready to explore and share knowledge on Colour? Visit the repository and join a growing community of professionals and institutions working to preserve the colour in heritage collections.

Credits

Marios Pitikakis , Sophia Sotiropoulou (FORTH)