Justify
Sicily, Italy 2004
My first summer workshop in Sicily. Cefalù opened its doors to us with its beautiful beaches, old center and his welcoming inhabitants. Eleven students from different countries including Holland, Japan, the US, Italy and Mexico came to share this new experience. I felt particularly happy that Sissy and the boys were there too along with my parents, my good old friend Dario and Fausto whom were in charge of the darkroom.
The first day, after the traditional portfolios’ review that set the photographic standard, I invited all my students to a very delicious welcome dinner at my parents’ summerhouse on the hills overlooking the town.
During the following nine days we were out taking pictures in Cefalù, Palermo, Pollina and other intriguing villages dotted around the area. We photographed processions, Sicilians at leisure, and plenty of daily life. The editing sessions were a lot of fun. We had the complete dining area of the hotel, while the commercial kitchen, which included some occasional mice, was transformed into a huge darkroom.
Every morning, while having cappuccinos and croissants, we edited away. As always, all the students had to work really hard to go beyond the ordinary. Some were a bit startled about my toughness in the editing process, but finally they all understood that I was doing it in their own interest. “We couldn’t take no prisoners” as Judith Babinsky wrote in her amusing commentaries on her experience, wanting to underscore that I didn’t compromise when I had to eliminate an image. In the end, we only chose a few precious images over the thousands taken. Each single image perfectly justifies the space within it, a good combination of content and form. The group Justify was born. Simply look at the images selected and judge for yourself.
I feel very fortunate to have made this other dream a reality; I feel privileged to have been, once again, the catalyst of a new life and photographic experience. It doesn’t hurt to add that some of the food we had was simply amazing Sicilian food. The little books will come soon.
I leave you with Danelle’s words that covey beautifully part of the experience:
”Ciao Ernesto. Congratulations…you are officially on vacation…
Thank you so much for initiating me and accepting me into the clan of Bazanphotos. I am thrilled to now be a part of the ones who justify, who find the secondary elements, and the ones who discriminate those subjects who are too aware. In just 10 days, my photography eye has matured in a very exciting matter.” EB
