Mariangela Capossela's public art project reactivates censored letters from Italian psychiatric hospitals
In 2022, artist Mariangela Capossela introduced 'Ci. Corrispondenze immaginarie,' a public art initiative focused on mental health care and the historical inclusion of marginalized voices. This project examines censored correspondence from patients in Italian psychiatric hospitals, dating from the late 19th century to fifty years ago. Curated by Giulia Crisci and Francesca Comisso, it spans Trieste and Gorizia, inviting responses from March 11 to June 11, 2024. This effort aligns with the centennial of psychiatrist Franco Basaglia, whose 1978 legislation prompted the closure of institutions. Organized by Teatro degli Sterpi APS and others, it features public writing desks where high school students will transcribe letters, with responses showcased alongside originals in a 2025 exhibition.
Key facts
- Project 'Ci. Corrispondenze immaginarie' launched in 2022 by artist Mariangela Capossela
- Focuses on censored letters from Italian psychiatric hospitals (late 19th century to 50 years ago)
- Curated by Giulia Crisci and Francesca Comisso
- Nationwide call open from March 11 to June 11, 2024
- Coincides with centenary of Franco Basaglia (born 1924)
- Realized by Teatro degli Sterpi APS with Hangar Teatri, Accademia della Follia, Coop La Collina, and Municipality of Gorizia
- Collaboration with Mental Health Department of ASUGI
- Students from I.S.I.S. Giosuè Carducci, Dante Alighieri, Da Vinci – Carli – De Sandrinelli (Trieste) and I.S.I.S. Brignoli (Gorizia) involved since January 2024
- Public transcription events (Scrittoi Pubblici) start May 2024
- New exhibition by Capossela planned for 2025
Entities
Artists
- Mariangela Capossela
Institutions
- Teatro degli Sterpi APS
- Hangar Teatri
- Accademia della Follia
- Coop La Collina
- Comune di Gorizia
- ASUGI
- I.S.I.S. Giosuè Carducci
- I.S.I.S. Dante Alighieri
- I.S.I.S. Da Vinci – Carli – De Sandrinelli
- I.S.I.S. Brignoli
Locations
- Trieste
- Gorizia
- Italy