The Valley

On the night of January 14th, 1968, a destructive earthquake struck the Belíce Valley in Sicily, causing devastation and claiming many lives. This region, already struggling with rural poverty, was isolated from the economic growth experienced by larger cities in Sicily. The area's simple way of life revolved around agriculture and livestock, and its hilly landscape made it difficult for rescue operations following the earthquake. The State's inefficiency and failure to provide adequate support during the recovery process amplified the suffering of the local communities, who lost their homes and livelihoods. The slow bureaucracy and lack of planning prolonged the reconstruction effort, resulting in inadequate infrastructure and the mismanagement of public resources. Today, the region continues to face challenges, with a declining and ageing population, and the encroachment of urban development characterised by irrational architecture and excessive concrete, which has facilitated local corruption over the years.

The first chapter, Fracture, has already been completed with work produced by the participants of the Sicily Photo Masterclass from 2018 to 2023. Over five years, the resident photographers responded to the theme of Fracture by examining the traces related to trauma, conflict, and alienation. 

The second chapter, Gravity, commenced during the 2024 edition of the SPM. It delves into the themes of falling, the earth, and the tension within the region's social fabric. Photographers also explore elements that defy gravity, such as repulsion and attraction, in an effort to reinterpret the forces that govern both nature and the inhabited environment. 

The final chapter, Threshold, will focus on exploring the outcomes, traces, and solutions of the post-reconstruction transitions.