ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Humboldt Books: The Italian Publisher Redefining Travel

publication · 2026-05-05

Humboldt Books, an independent Italian publisher founded by photographer Giovanna Silva, reimagines the concept of travel through artist collaborations and photographic narratives. The publishing house, named after Alexander von Humboldt, draws inspiration from his six-year expedition across the Americas starting in 1799, which produced thirty volumes. Franco Farinetti, a geographer, describes Humboldt's journey as encompassing all travel genres. Silva's catalog features works by artists such as Luigi Ontani, Carsten Höller, Mike Monk, Rä di Martino, Sophie Calle, Henkel, Ugo Mulas, Gabriele Basilico, Carlo Mollino, Perrone, Sterling, and Haris Epaminonda, whose "Humboldt books" are highlighted. The publisher presents travel as fragmented memories, combining photography, storytelling, and art. The article, by Cristiano Seganfreddo, appears in Artribune Magazine #40.

Key facts

  • Humboldt Books is an Italian independent publisher focused on travel.
  • Founder Giovanna Silva is a photographer.
  • The publisher is named after Alexander von Humboldt.
  • Humboldt's expedition began in 1799 and lasted nearly six years.
  • The expedition produced thirty volumes.
  • Franco Farinetti is a geographer who introduced Humboldt's anthology.
  • Artists featured include Luigi Ontani, Carsten Höller, Mike Monk, Rä di Martino, Sophie Calle, Henkel, Ugo Mulas, Gabriele Basilico, Carlo Mollino, Perrone, Sterling, and Haris Epaminonda.
  • Haris Epaminonda's 'Humboldt books' are specifically mentioned.
  • The article was published in Artribune Magazine #40.
  • Cristiano Seganfreddo authored the article.

Entities

Artists

  • Giovanna Silva
  • Alexander von Humboldt
  • Franco Farinetti
  • Luigi Ontani
  • Carsten Höller
  • Mike Monk
  • Rä di Martino
  • Sophie Calle
  • Henkel
  • Ugo Mulas
  • Gabriele Basilico
  • Carlo Mollino
  • Perrone
  • Sterling
  • Haris Epaminonda
  • Cristiano Seganfreddo

Institutions

  • Humboldt Books
  • Artribune Magazine

Locations

  • Italy
  • Bali
  • Americas

Sources