The Divers is a photographic series set in Capri, Italy, my homeland. The project was inspired by the annual celebration of the island’s iconic rock bar, Qubè, a nighttime festival held each year along the rugged, rocky coastline of the island.
During the festivities, amidst the dancing and distraction of the crowd, a group of young boys began to undress and leap into the dark sea below. This spontaneous act of diving sparked a profound realization within me as an islander: growing up and stepping into adulthood in a small, isolated community like Capri is a journey marked by both courage and fear. The sea that surrounds the island acts as a double-edged symbol—offering both protection and confinement. It shelters us but also instills a fear of change, holding many back from leaving and experiencing the larger world.
Through this series, I explore the act of diving as a powerful metaphor for the challenges faced by Gen Z islanders. These young individuals must confront uncertainty, break free from the limitations of their insular upbringing, and carve out a future in an unpredictable world. Each dive represents a leap of faith—a confrontation with the void of the unknown and a step toward independence and self-discovery.
The Divers is an ode to the youth of Capri, a generation that is finding the courage to leave behind the familiar, to overcome fear, and to seek meaning and purpose beyond the confines of the island. This series captures the essence of their journey—a testament to resilience, bravery, and the universal desire to grow and evolve.