Rossella Biscotti's 'L'uomo che cammina all'indietro' in Parabita

Rossella Biscotti has created a site-specific work titled 'L'uomo che cammina all'indietro' for the Ipogea project in Parabita, Italy. The project, part of the broader 'Parabita per il contemporaneo' initiative, aims to reactivate the town's underground heritage, including ancient olive oil mills. Biscotti's intervention is centered on the stone wheel of an old mill, which she inscribes with a spiral of mirrored Arial font text, creating a paradoxical dynamic: a wheel that is immobile yet suggests movement through language. The title references a family memory of her grandfather walking backwards while hauling ropes at the port. The work explores themes of progress, technology, and time, juxtaposing ancient craftsmanship with digital typography. Curated by Carmelo Cipriani, the piece is part of a series of five permanent interventions. The project is supported by the municipality of Parabita, led by mayor Stefano Prete, with artistic direction by Giovanni Lamorgese. Future phases include Urbana, Nidia, Piccola, and Ritiro, aiming to integrate contemporary art with local heritage and community.