3rd International Conference “Cultural Convergence and Digital Technology”

I have recently been in Athens, Greece for the 3rd International Conference entitled Cultural Convergence and Digital Technology which was organized by The Foundation of the Hellenic World from the 23rd to the 25th of November 2006.

The conference obviously had to do with cultural heritage and how technology can help us to preserve it. Generally speaking most of the sessions covered either theoretical concepts or some extraordinary ways of creating a more perceivable future for everyone of us. What I would like to see was some more real implementations of technology to our everyday life. Overall I think that this conference was meaningful and important for all of us who are strongly attached to technology.

Among the several speakers there was Hiroshi Ishii, Professor, Head of the Tangible Media Group, MIT Media Laboratory who stood out. Mr Ishii presented us the “Tangible Bits: beyond pixels”. Apart from being impressed with the level of his expertise and intelligence I particularly enjoyed his spirit and the way he comprehends technology. Once more it was proved that wise men do not have to show off. Their achievements speak for them.

It was the first time I visited The Foundation of the Hellenic World. After having participated in many conferences in Greece or abroad I tended to believe that I couldn’t be impressed by the facilities provided. I was wrong. The Foundation of the Hellenic World is a well developed, mature place of culture. The exhibition called A Journey to the World of Greek Mathematics which is held there is an excellent spot for children or adults who want to dive into the delightful world of science. By providing four different types of interactivity it conveys the concept of the museum of the new era.

All in all this trip to Athens was an fascinating experience and I was very happy being there for these days.