In the audiovisual work “Warshadfilm meets Carlo Levi”, the Italian artist duo charts the echoes of the painter and author’s seminal book “Cristo si è fermato a Eboli” through the stories of the citizens of Aliano, where he was exiled
Words DILETTA MARSILI
In a harmonious embrace of the eternal interplay between artistic expression and historical resonance, we’re ecstatic to unveil an enthralling collaboration that transcends the confines of ordinary perception. Presented by the visionary talents of Warshadfilm in partnership with Foundation Matera 2019, prepare to be swept away on a journey of boundless imagination. Nestled amidst the ancient cobblestone pathways of Aliano village, where time seems to echo with the whispers of bygone eras, Warshadfilm embarked on a transcendent odyssey from December 26 to December 31, 2023. This ephemeral voyage was a fusion of creativity and heritage, as the artists delved deep into the rich tapestry of Carlo Levi’s archive. Imbued with the mystical radiance of analog 16mm film, the artists crafted a cinematic opus that pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling. Through their lens, a lyrical conduit, they captured the essence of Aliano, echoing the murmurs of its storied past while painting visions of its future. Carlo Levi’s archive served as the sacred manuscript, with the ink of history seeping into every frame of this audiovisual masterpiece, awaiting its grand unveiling. A silent dialogue is poised to unfold, a reverent exchange between yesteryears and the present moment, inviting us to bear witness to the enchantment born when creativity intertwines with the echoes of time.
Amidst the backdrop of Mussolini’s regime, spanning from 1935 to 1936, Carlo Levi found himself confined to the landscapes of Basilicata (then known as Lucania) due to his anti-fascist endeavors. It was within the confines of Grassano and later Aliano, where Levi immersed himself in the realities of the land and its people. Amidst his internment in Aliano, spurred on by the pleas of the impoverished locals, Levi resumed his medical practice, offering his services free of charge, thus gaining firsthand insight into the plight of the rural peasants. In his final wishes, the author expressed a desire to rest in Aliano “amongst his peasants.” To this day, the village remains a living testament to the settings depicted in Levi’s novel, with symbolic phrases etched into its narrow alleyways. Here, Levi encountered a different Italy, one rooted in the peasant traditions of the Mezzogiorno. Yet, this cinematic endeavor ventures beyond the surface allure, delving into the clandestine connections between distant hamlets and bustling urban landscapes. Aliano stands as a frontier village, ensconced within the natural splendor yet marked by its remoteness from bustling urban hubs. In stark contrast, cities grapple with issues of gentrification, overpopulation, and the encroaching tide of urbanization, risking the erosion of their unique cultural identity.
This project sheds light on the delicate equilibrium between rural simplicity and urban complexity, showcasing how these disparate worlds can learn and evolve in tandem. At its core, the residency seeks to birth a cinematic narrative that sparks contemplation on the trials and triumphs faced by remote villages and sprawling metropolises alike. This film serves as a catalyst, urging audiences to reevaluate their relationship with nature, history, and community, while rediscovering the enduring relevance of art in narrating these timeless tales. Warshadfilm stands as a beacon of cinematic exploration, comprising the collaborative genius of Tiziano Doria and Samira Guadagnuolo, established in 2019. Their work is deeply entrenched in the realms of analog photography and film, with much of their creative process unfolding within the confines of the darkroom. Here, amidst the alchemy of development and printing, they seek to unearth a form and language that resonate on a conceptual and poetic level, utilizing the minimalist essence of their tools to forge profound connections with their audience.
