Ferdinando Scianna - Ferdinando Scianna - Visionari - 2021

A rare book on Ferdinando Scianna, which gathers his most iconic images together with some unreleased ones.

Ferdinando Scianna is a renowned Italian photographer born in Bagheria, Sicily, in 1943. He is best known for his work documenting the culture, traditions, and daily life of his homeland, Sicily. His photographic style is characterized by an intense use of black and white, which evocatively captures the essence of the subjects and situations depicted.

Scianna began his career in the 1960s, collaborating with writer Leonardo Sciascia, with whom he published the book "Religious Festivals in Sicily" in 1965. This work is an important testament to the island’s religious traditions and had a great impact on Scianna’s career, bringing him to national and international attention; in 1982, Scianna joined the prestigious Magnum Photos agency.

Scianna’s photographs of Sicily are a homage to his homeland, which he portrays with love and attention to detail. Often, his shots highlight the contrast between ancient traditions and modernity, underscoring the island’s beauty and complexity. Sicilian women are a recurring theme in his work; Scianna photographs them with a gaze that combines respect and admiration, showing their strength, dignity, and central role in Sicilian society.

Hardcover, first edition
Contrasto 2021.

Enjoy the gallery with some stunning images taken from inside the book!