"Isola" (Italian for "Island") is the evocative title of a series of cultural events that will take place at Plastico Gallery from 26 October until 21 December.
Dedicated to the theme of separation, Isola explores various nuances of "isola-tion" through introspection mediated by different artistic expressions.
The Island, as both a physical and symbolic place, represents a space detached and separated from the surrounding reality, where feelings of distance, solitude, and sometimes isolation are amplified.
Through feature films, photography, novels, and poetry, these events delve into the experiences of the voiceless marginalised, lovers separated by a screen, strangers in a foreign land, and the divided (and the united) in a collective narrative about the emotions of those who live in a symbolic "elsewhere."
“Isola is thus a powerful metaphor and image of an experience that goes beyond a mere place. It is individual yet universal, closely tied to the most profound and shared human emotions.”
Vito Famà, Event Curator
The Program
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In Ambra La Malfa’s photographs, we witness the self-portrait of a dying relationship, like the dimming light of a phone. The uncertainty of existence and non-existence is felt in the eyes of a mysterious man, under the shadow of ghosting.
In the emptiness of her own room, the artist confronts solitude. She grapples with this feeling, identifying herself with everything she wears and then sheds, as if trying to cleanse herself of decay and unreciprocated love. She invites the figure on the other side of the screen to use her "forcefully" and discard her "like something set aside," now of little value, much like the shoes, clothes tossed on the floor, and pearl earrings.
Yet, amidst this inner turmoil, overflowing with ambiguous images and absence, comes a rebirth: stripping away makeup and these symbolic objects allows her to begin anew, creating a new love story. In this liminal space, the protagonist finds her redemption, writing a new “verse” where she can smile again, despite it all.
Opening: 26th October, 8pm
Free entrance -
This documentary delves into the life and legacy of Franco Scaldati, a renowned Sicilian playwright, poet, director, and actor who was a central figure in Sicilian theater, known for having given voice to the marginalized communities and the outskirts of Palermo.
The film reflects on Scaldati’s profound cultural and social impact. It begins with the artistic tribute by Sicilian street artist Igor Scalisi Palminteri—a mural in Palermo's Albergheria district—and unfolds into a rich narrative that intertwines sounds, images, and voices to honor Scaldati’s memory, examining the complex relationship between Palermo and its notable figures, raising questions about the city's collective memory and its connection to its most illustrious sons.
Directed by Antonio Macaluso and Costante La Bruna
Screening: 9th November, 8pm (45 min)
Free Entrance. -
In her exhibited works, Martina Naciti explores concepts that are still unknown and uncharted for her.
In a continuous artistic search between the self and the “I,” between a sense of belonging and isolation, she observes the path that has brought her to this point.
Opening: 16th November, 8pm
Free entrance -
In these collection of tales of writer Nino Famà, a journey unfolds that oscillates between consciousness and unconsciousness, experience and perception, dream and reality.
The characters in Don Gaudenzio move through a surreal environment where the past and memories blend with the present. In many of the stories, the journey becomes a key element around which the narrative is structured, serving a dual role as both a physical journey through geography and a mental journey through memory.Presented by the same Nino Famà who will connect online with us, the characters’ belonging to two different countries and cultures creates a sense of duality and psychological division. They are mentally torn between two realities that compete for their allegiance, struggling to reconcile the two worlds that shape their lives.
Event: CANCELLED
Free Entrance. -
Rainworms, written by Samuele Livornese and illustrated by Spiros Baras, is a compelling visual and literary exploration of isolation and emotional complexity.
Through its evocative narrative and minimal illustrations, the book tells the story of a person who feels fundamentally different from others—not just in their sense of self, but in the way they experience and express emotions.
Rainworms captures the essence of inner solitude, offering readers a poignant reflection on what it means to feel disconnected from the world, yet deeply connected to one's own emotions.
Reading: 7th December, 8pm.
Free Entrance. -
This event offers a culinary journey through the rich flavours of Sicily, intertwined with the ancient tastes of Magna Grecia.
Curated by Sicilian designer, Chiara Aliotta, the evening will feature a selection of small bites that celebrate the fusion of these two historic cultures.
Dishes are thoughtfully paired with a Sicilian wine, chosen to enhance the tasting experience and bring out the unique character of the ingredients.
Event: 14th December, 8pm.
Entrance: 10 euros per person (with reservation).