Amid political noise and traditional media coverage, renowned Italian photographer Savino Carboni takes a unique approach, delving into the depth of Shia identity in Iraq beyond surface narratives.
According to the British Journal of Photography, Carboni embarked on his journey to Iraq after years of documentary work, exploring the intricate blend of religious beliefs, social aspirations, and political dynamics. From Mosul to the grand shrines of Holy Karbala, his lens uncovered a side of Iraq often overlooked by Western media.
Focusing on humanity rather than violence, Carboni examined how religious narratives shape individual and collective identities. In 2024, with support from an Italian cultural grant, he returned to document the Arbaeen pilgrimage, overcoming security challenges to capture moments of faith, sacrifice, and solidarity.
Deeply engaged with Iraqis, Carboni found warmth and curiosity, inspiring him to continue his project with academic support from Mosul and Basra. Unlike traditional photographers, he sought to portray collective identity rather than isolated stories.
Following an exhibition in Italy, Carboni is set to publish a book on his Iraq project this fall, describing his journey as “a mosaic of faith, culture, and living history.”
