Michael Kenna's decade-long study of Italian confessionals at Joseph Bellows Gallery

The Joseph Bellows Gallery is showcasing "Confessionali," a collection by British photographer Michael Kenna. This endeavor commenced in 2007 when Kenna explored the Chiesa di Santo Stefano in Reggio Emilia, Italy, where he began documenting confessionals—wooden booths designated for the sacrament of confession. Unlike those found in other nations, Italian confessionals are often intricately designed, highlighting local artistry and the significance of aesthetic appeal in church settings. Kenna revisited Reggio Emilia multiple times, working on the series from 2007 to 2016. The photographs were all taken within this region, illustrating the diverse architectural styles of confessionals and Kenna's connection to these profound, intimate spaces.