Since its inception during the global disruption of the Covid pandemic, the Narni Città Teatro festival has distinguished itself by weaving together multiple forms of artistic expression, creating an immersive and multidimensional experience. This year, in its sixth edition, the festival expanded its creative scope by integrating contemporary visual arts alongside performances, dance, and theatre. Under the theme "Giocare la vita" (Playing Life), the festival explored ideas of exile, resilience, identity, and hope.

As part of this visual arts dimension, Narni hosted the photographic exhibition "Oltre quel confine è la mia casa" (Beyond That Border Is My Home), originally presented in Lampedusa. Kindly lent to the festival by the Comitato 3 Ottobre, the exhibition was curated by journalist and documentary filmmaker Shafiur Rahman, who was invited by curator Antonella Liuzzi, and featured images captured by Rohingya refugees themselves."Oltre quel confine è la mia casa" (Beyond That Border Is My Home), originally presented in Lampedusa.

During a talk with the festival art curator, Antonella Liuzzi, held on 8 June, Rahman discussed how the Rohingya Photography Competition, initiated in 2020 amidst the pandemic, provided refugees with a creative and empowering platform. He highlighted the critical need for Rohingya-made visibility, challenging simplistic portrayals and stereotypes often found in mainstream media.

The exhibition included compelling personal stories, such as that of photographer Abul Kalam, who faced harassment and detention simply for documenting refugee experiences. Such narratives underline the significant risks taken by Rohingya photographers who strive to tell their community’s story authentically.

The photographers featured in the exhibition (in alphabetical order) were: Zahangir Alam, Haider Ali, Salim Ullah Armany, Sahat Zia Hero, Mohammed Hossain, Zonun Hubait, Mainul Islam, Abul Kalam, Abdul Monaf, Samiya, and a photographer who wished to remain anonymous.

Above. Antonella Liuzzi. Here are some press clippings from the event.