Lumina Factory: New Analog Photography Research Center Opens in Pistoia
Located at Via dei Fabbri 17 in Pistoia, Lumina Factory has launched as a research center and visual arts studio dedicated to analog photography. Established by Maria Di Pietro and Felisia Toscano, it specializes in 'fotografia minutera,' a portrait technique from the early 20th century that employs a wooden camera alongside the traditional silver salt method. The center aspires to serve as a focal point for photographic endeavors, providing workshops on family photo restoration, courses on repurposing historical images, and photographic excursions in Pistoia. Additionally, it will create small-format editorial products. An official opening for its exhibition and educational season is set for September 2026, featuring masters of minutera photography and historical workshops in the old town of Pistoia.
Key facts
- Lumina Factory is located at Via dei Fabbri 17, Pistoia, Italy.
- Founded by photographer Maria Di Pietro and curator Felisia Toscano.
- The center focuses on analog photography and the practice of 'fotografia minutera'.
- Fotografia minutera uses a wooden camera with integrated darkroom and silver salt process.
- The project is informed by experiences in Paris and at the Rencontres d'Arles.
- Programs include workshops on family photo restoration, private archive recomposition, and photographic walks.
- The atelier will produce small-format editorial items like artist's boxes and postcards.
- Official inauguration is set for September 2026 with a diffuse event involving masters and local workshops.
- The center aims to engage with Pistoia's urban and artisanal fabric.
Entities
Artists
- Maria Di Pietro
- Felisia Toscano
Institutions
- Lumina Factory
- Rencontres d'Arles
Locations
- Pistoia
- Italy
- Paris
- France
- Via dei Fabbri 17