Roma exhibition merges immigration and mental health through museum visits

A photography exhibition at Chiaroscuro, a project space in Rome directed by Francesca Longo, documents a social-artistic experiment bringing together migrants and people with mental health issues. The exhibition, titled 'Sguardi' (Glances), runs from March 6 to March 16, 2019, at via Sant'Antonio all'Esquilino. The project stems from a collaboration between two associations: Attiva-Mente, formed by users and operators of the Centro Diurno Montesanto (part of ASL Roma 1), and Baobab Experience, which previously provided first reception for irregular migrants in Rome. Since 2015, the associations have organized guided tours of museums and monumental spaces in Rome, coordinated by art historian Daniela Ferrara. The photographs on display were taken during visits to Palazzo Massimo, Centrale Montemartini, MAXXI, Musei Capitolini, Galleria Nazionale, and Villa Torlonia, capturing moments of contemplation and interaction with art. The initiative aims to foster socio-cultural integration and challenge marginality by making cultural heritage accessible to marginalized groups.