They Never Lose Optimism
By Gianluca Federighi | December 22, 2020
Five years ago, I started a project called “The Italians,” which is about street portraits in my home town, Lucca, and in Florence, Pisa, and Livorno. Then the coronavirus came along and the project stalled—people were disappearing from the streets; many have died. Poverty and poor governance have made the situation terrible. These images are about the spirit of those who have survived. Many of them do odd jobs that are unsafe and poorly paid. Often they are exploited. Still, they never lose optimism and the will to live.
“Fabio” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
“Maria” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
“Enzo” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
“Gino” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
“Maria” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
“Francesco” (photo@Gianluca Federighi)
Copyright © 2020 Gianluca Federighi
Federighi is a photographer based in Tuscany, Italy. He mainly takes landscape photographs in an effort to document climate change. In addition, Federighi takes street portraits to capture the remarkable resolve of people in the community where he lives.
Some people have an amazing spirit in the face of adversity. I wish it was a universal trait of humanity, we would all benefit deeply.
Great portraits and beautiful use of black and white photography!
Your photos are absolutely spectacular. Thank you.