Annasole & Thier [Parma, 2017]

I was a child in the 90s and I clearly remember how much Oliviero Toscani’s work and advertisements had struck me: the contrast of colors, of cultures that was behind them, with its advertising but also cultural message (the desire to strike, to disdain the audience). I have always admired the versatility and boldness of Toscani, his ability to narrate and to represent real situations from a different, nonconformist angle, using often the linearity of a monochrome backdrop.

In the end, the concept behind this photo shoot was “the contrast”, behind a line of simplicity. I am grateful for this outcome, due in good part to the cooperation of little Annasole (unwitting but cooperative model!), to Thier (who gladly accepted to get involved) and to Elisa (the little model’s mom!).

and now the funny ones (kind of Behind the scenes)!

and with momma!

Angela [Breda Cisoni, 2015]

I had almost forgotten these shots of my aunt taken at her home. At the time I used to compulsively browse on the internet and when I saw whatever I thought would be appropriate for a photoshoot or would inspire me, I would buy it. I had put my hands on this black velvet hat, which reminded me of the Amish. My Aunt Angela had beautiful eyes and a wrinkled skin. That day (we were at hers for lunch) I had asked her to pose for me, for a couple of quick shots. Overcoming her usual shyness, she had accepted to play the role and this is the memory we have.

Edda’s place [Parma, 2015]

My paternal grandmother had an artistic streak. She wasn’t ware of it but I was. Even though she never fulfilled it, this would pop out, from time to time. One of her passions was going to the cinema (where she would cry if the movie was moving or captivating), she was a narrator (actually she was a chatterbox!) and she also knew how “to play the part” that suited her best. I would often go at her’s for a coffee and a chat and now that she is gone, I am glad to have photographed her several times and also details of her flat, from which a piece of her soul emerges.

Depositio [Parma, 2015]

I had a bizarre idea which became a peculiar photo shoot. I have a skinny cousin (who is perfectly healthy), and I would say he is carved in his body. The week before I had paid a visit to the Cathedral where I had seen the Deposition from the cross by Benedetto Antelami (dated 1178 AD). I merged ancient sacred art with photography by connecting them. I asked my cousin to pose for me and guess what he said…