Carmela mural in Corato removed after family protest
A mural honoring Carmela Dell'Abbazia, a local prostitute known as the 'Bocca di Rosa' of Corato, was painted by street artist Rizek on the facade of her former home during the second edition of the Verso Sud festival. The festival, organized by the association Lavorare Stanca and curated by Giuliano Maroccini and Luigi Piccarreta, focused on the theme of abandonment. The mural referenced a scene from Lina Wertmüller's film 'D'amore e anarchia' and aimed to celebrate Carmela's dignity and local legend. However, Carmela's descendants requested its removal, feeling it reopened old wounds and stigmatized their family. The artist and organizers complied, prioritizing respect and dialogue over public opinion. The incident sparked debate about public art, censorship, and community engagement, highlighting tensions between artistic expression and family sensitivities. The festival also featured works by Hyuro and Alberonero, and a performance by Saverio La Ruina.
Key facts
- Mural by Rizek depicted Carmela Dell'Abbazia, a local prostitute from Corato.
- Carmela was born in Corato (Bari) in early 1900s and died in the 1980s.
- The mural was painted on the facade of her former home, now a ruin.
- It was part of the second edition of Verso Sud festival, curated by Giuliano Maroccini and Luigi Piccarreta.
- The festival theme was 'abbandono' (abandonment), interpreted as solitude and gift.
- Carmela's family requested the mural's removal, citing reopened wounds.
- Organizers and artist agreed to remove the mural, emphasizing dialogue and respect.
- The incident raised questions about public art, censorship, and community involvement.
Entities
Artists
- Rizek
- Hyuro
- Alberonero
- Luis Gomez
- Saverio La Ruina
- Lina Wertmüller
- Giancarlo Giannini
- Fabrizio de André
- Giuseppe Di Vagno
- Leo de Berardinis
Institutions
- Lavorare Stanca
- Verso Sud
- Premio Ubu
Locations
- Corato
- Bari
- Italy
- Rome
- via dei Fiori
- Piazza Sedile
- Sant'Ilario
- Marigliano
- Aliano