Lisetta Carmi

Lisetta Carmi (1924-2022) was an Italian photographer who used her art as a means to explore and narrate social realities that are often marginalized and invisible. With a deeply empathetic approach and strong civic commitment, Carmi dedicated much of her career to documenting the human stories of those living on the fringes of society, creating images that reflect her sensitivity to themes of identity and diversity.

One of Carmi's most significant works is I travestiti, a series of photographs taken between 1965 and 1971 that document the lives of transgender individuals in 1960s Genoa. This series is among the first in Italy to address the topic of transsexuality without voyeurism, treating its subjects with respect and humanity. It stands as a pioneering and radical work that challenges the social norms of its time.

Carmi's photographs go beyond mere documentation; they are portraits that tell stories of courage and resilience within a context of marginalization and prejudice. One of the most emblematic images from the series is Pasquale, which depicts one of the inhabitants of Genoa's red-light district. In this shot, Carmi delicately captures the essence of the subject, revealing a face that conveys both vulnerability and pride.

Her work is distinguished by its ability to capture reality without filters, exposing the contradictions and complexities of post-war Italian society. The images, characterized by strong emotional impact and clear social intention, invite viewers to look beyond appearances and confront realities that are often preferred to be ignored.

Carmi's "I travestiti" represents a turning point in Italian documentary photography, opening a dialogue on themes such as gender identity, sexuality, and social marginalization. Through her work, Lisetta Carmi contributed to giving visibility to those with less representation, breaking the silence and sparking discussions on issues that were considered taboo at the time. Her photography serves as an act of resistance against invisibility and prejudice, continuing to inspire and remain relevant today.