Women Interiors. Places of liberation

2024: One woman is assassinated every 10 seconds somewhere in the world. Gender-based violence is still a social problem of global proportions. The project investigates the spaces of anti-violence shelters as a metaphor of courage and resilience.

2024: 113 women killed in Italy, 93 in France, 360 in Germany, 112 in UK. One woman is assassinated every 10 seconds somewhere in the world.

Gender-based violence is still a social problem of global proportions. Women Interiors. Places of liberation  is a visual ongoing project exploring the spaces where  women who are survivors of domestic abuse and gender-based violence are helped and sheltered in Italy.

Anti-Violence Centers are essential instruments supporting women to rediscover their identities, their values and competencies, so as to find once again the will to build a new life. Women’s Shelters provide a temporary protection in a secret place to victims and their children who are escaping domestic violence, giving them back the control over their own lives to project themselves into a free and independently chosen future. Among the services offered there are: 24 hours telephone helpline, legal, social and psychological advice, parenting support, cultural mediation, job orientation, guidance to local services.

The photographic story arises from a deep immersion within some of the Anti-Violence Centers and Shelters, with the support of Alessandra Attanasio, feminist activist. The spaces capture not only the strength, courage, and resilience of the victims who have found refuge and support in these safe locations but also the energy, care and sharing of the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide assistance to these women and their children.

Since for security reasons the inhabitants couldn't be photographed by showcasing the environments of these centers, the project aims to raise awareness about the resources available, included the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide assistance to these women and their children. The ultimate goal is to inspire empathy, encourage dialogue, and promote community support for initiatives that combat gender-based violence.