Era Mare: A Photographic Book on Venice's Acqua Alta

Photographer Matteo de Mayda, graphic design studio bruno (Andrea Codolo and Giacomo Covacich), and curator Francesca Seravalle collaborated on the photobook Era Mare, responding to the exceptional high water that struck Venice on November 12, 2019, reaching 187 cm—the highest since the 1966 flood. The project rejects sensationalism, aiming to capture the fragile atmosphere and resilience of Venice and its inhabitants. De Mayda photographed over a week, including at the MOSE barrier and in Chioggia, speaking with residents, volunteers from Venice Calls, and MOSE officials. He imagined being in 2050 when high water would be normal, inspired by a Climate Central study predicting Venice's submersion by 2050. The book's design by bruno features a split binding, allowing readers to choose what to see, reflecting a divided Venice. Seravalle's accompanying text is a dystopian narrative inspired by J.G. Ballard's The Drowned World, focusing on mental stress and questions about Venice's future rather than drama. Proceeds from sales support businesses and private individuals in the Dorsoduro district via the cultural association Do.Ve., where bruno is based. The project underscores the role of culture and publishing in fostering virtuous social dynamics.