The 'object' of knowledge both emerges and is elaborated within the framework of the activity within which it is realized. Each research field has its own distinct topology that includes 'activities' and 'action sites' where the different tasks of doing unfolds. History, practice and theory for example are three facets in which research incrementing our knowledge about art can be carried out. Through film it is possible to observe the changes that have occurred in many of our cities during the past 100 years. It is not the same visual gestalt however that engages us when we watch a 35mm film projection, a high-definition digital video, or a simulation created using a computer. In our era of digital culture in which we have key topics of discussion such as virtual reality, historical research with art and about art can help us to instantiate sensual historiographies about culture. Though as archival genres these formations might at first sight appear esoteric, they might provide us with new understanding about our reality in the Information Society. (Very roough translation by the author)