It’s called ‘Lanterna Beach’ and it is Mariano Doronzo’s photographic exhibition that will arrive in Foggia. The inauguration is scheduled for June 13th at 5.30pm at the Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art of Palazzo Dogana and will be open to visitors until June 27th.
Organized by the association ‘The elephant in the room’ and curated by Daniela d’Elia (artist and president of the association), the exhibition offers an intimate and profound look at the community of bathers at the Braccio, Barletta’s eastern pier. This emblematic place represents a meeting point and connection with nature for a group of men who meet there throughout the year to tan and share moments of conviviality. The project, which began in 2015, highlights the beauty of small daily gestures and the importance of tradition and community in a unique natural context.
It is a work that goes beyond mere documentation: through attention to physical details and rituals, the photographer conducts intimate and delicate research that challenges numerous stereotypes and preconceptions, delving into social issues regarding masculinity, vulnerability and self-awareness . Body shapes and tattoos tell personal stories of pain, resilience and identity. Bathing rituals – moments of purification and renewal – show men in a state of exposure, not only physically but also emotionally, creating a fascinating contrast to the traditional image of masculinity.
The detailed narration of these elements not only humanizes the subjects, but also invites the audience to reflect on their own vulnerability, fears, insecurities and fragilities that are often hidden behind a mask of strength. It is an invitation to recognize and accept one’s weaknesses as an integral part of the human being, promoting a more holistic and authentic vision of masculinity.
The exhibition enjoys the patronage of the biblio-museum center of Foggia.
