We are delighted to announce that the next edition of the International Conference on Innovation in Art Research and Technology (InArt2026) will take place from 7th to 11th September 2026, in Funchal, Madeira (Portugal).

InArt2026 will bring together researchers, conservators, curators, and professionals working at the intersection of cultural heritage, science, and technology. The conference provides a vibrant interdisciplinary platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across fields dedicated to the characterization, conservation, and sustainable preservation of cultural heritage.

The event will open on 7th September with a special workshop on digital techniques and in-situ physical & chemical analysis.

5TH FEBRUARY - Open Call for abstracts

30TH MAY - Deadline for poster abstracts submission

12TH JUNE - Final decision

10TH JULY - Deadline for Early Birds

15TH APRIL - Deadline for abstracts submission

ABOUT THE INART CONFERENCE

InART focuses on creating a platform of knowledge sharing between different fields of science and technologies applied to the characterisation, conservation and preservation of global cultural heritage.

Welcome to Funchal, Madeira's capital, where the Regional Directorate of Culture is organising the next InART conference in 2026.

InART2026 invites participants from diverse fields within humanities and natural sciences to join and create an interdisciplinary discussion – a vital ingredient for innovation – about cultural heritage preservation in the academic fields of archaeological objects, artworks, built heritage, and more.

CONFERENCE TOPICS

1 • Non-Invasive and Non-Destructive Analytical Approaches

Spectroscopic, imaging, X-ray–based, and sensor-based techniques for the in-situ characterization of materials, artistic techniques, and degradation processes. Includes applied case studies demonstrating innovative analytical strategies, technological integration, and interdisciplinary approaches.

2 • Digital and Sustainable Innovation in Cultural Heritage

Advances in digital transformation, data-driven methodologies, and sustainable innovation strategies applied to the study, conservation, and management of cultural heritage. This topic emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, digital transition policies, and the role of technology in promoting sustainability in heritage research and practice.

3 • Development of Advanced Technological Tools

Design and implementation of new analytical devices, digital platforms, and software solutions for heritage science, including the integration of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data principles, advanced data analytics, and artificial intelligence.

4 • Sustainable Conservation Materials and Environmental Management

Development, testing, and characterization of eco-friendly materials and low-impact conservation treatments, including biomaterials and green restoration methods. This topic also encompasses preventive conservation strategies, innovative environmental monitoring techniques, climate and microclimate risk assessment, and the sustainable management of heritage sites and collections. Low-impact solutions linked to local chains/materials, territory-based strategies, and climate adaptation in low-resource settings.

5 • Digital Heritage & Collection Management

Strategies for digital archiving, 3D documentation, virtual access, and long-term data preservation. Integration of digital tools in collection management, conservation planning, and exhibition design to ensure accessibility and sustainability of cultural heritage information.

Site: https://inart2026.madeira.gov.pt/