The tarsus is the section of vertebrate foot between leg and toes. Its rugged bones support a complex range of subtle motions. At the same time, this sturdy complex converges and assembles different forces, rigidly limiting unwanted movements. It is fundamental to the human tread. Basilicata province is the tarsus of the “Italian boot”. Although this region is considered the Siberia of Italy, the corrugated landscape of plains, ravines, pastures and valleys is wild and beautiful. For the inhabitants, barricaded villages on mountaintops were the only safe havens in the historically hostile environment. While some left in search of a better life, those who remained are resilient and resourceful with what is at hand. Sometimes they allow a glimpse into their world behind lock and key.

The work has been the result of the artist residency funded by the Porta Coeli Foundation, Venosa, Italy. This is an excerpt of the double-exhibition with Magnum photographer and founder Henri Cartier-Bresson during the G20 summit in Matera in 2021.