PROJECT STATEMENT
My practice is deeply rooted in the exploration of the human condition within extreme natural environments, focusing on themes of resilience, self-sufficiency, and the profound connection between humanity and the wild. My work often manifests as long-distance walking expeditions, documented through photography and moving images, which serve as a meditative and physically demanding process of engagement with the landscape.
My upcoming project is a planned 3-month solo, long-distance nomadic walking art expedition across Iceland in 2026. This journey is conceived as a rigorous act of radical self-sufficiency, where I will navigate Iceland's diverse and challenging terrains entirely on foot, carrying all necessary provisions. This expedition is part of my ongoing series, Of Walking on Foot, directly inspired by Werner Herzog’s seminal film Of Walking in Ice, which chronicles his arduous walk from Munich to Paris. In homage to Herzog’s spirit of unwavering determination and personal quest, my project seeks to push the boundaries of physical and mental endurance while fostering an intimate, unmediated dialogue with the Icelandic wilderness.
Through this immersive experience, I aim to create a compelling body of work — encompassing stark, evocative photographs and raw, contemplative moving images — that captures the essence of embodied experience in solitude. The project will deeply speculate on the solitude and loneliness inherent in such a practice, surrounded by wild, raw nature, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationship with the environment and the concept of personal limits.
A core principle guiding this expedition is a commitment to radical sustainability. I will rely entirely on solar power for all my energy needs and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles, ensuring minimal environmental impact. This framework is integral to the artistic message, directly addressing ecological considerations and promoting climate awareness through practice.
The geological activity of Iceland, particularly its volcanoes, serves as a powerful metaphor for the profound, often volatile, relationship between humanity and nature. These landscapes are not merely backdrops but active participants in the narrative, embodying concepts of deep time, destructive creation, and the raw, uncontrollable forces of the Earth. Coming from Naples, a city intimately shaped by the presence of Mount Vesuvius, I carry a unique, inherent understanding of living in proximity to such immense geological power. This personal connection will deeply inform my engagement with Iceland's volcanic terrains. My presence in such environments highlights the insignificance of the individual against the backdrop of geological immensity, fostering a dialogue between the transient human experience and the enduring power of the planet. The volcanic terrains will be central to the visual narrative, reflecting themes of resilience, adaptation, and the sublime.
My previous work demonstrates a proven track record in navigating and artistically engaging with remote environments. This includes a 600 km solo traverse of the Shetland Islands and a 1000 km walking expedition across Norway, which culminated in the short film Like a fern between rocks. These experiences have honed my ability to transform physical endurance and solitude into compelling narratives — forging a universal language from personal experience.
This project isn't merely a physical undertaking but a profound artistic and philosophical inquiry into our place within a rapidly changing natural world — offering a singular artistic perspective on climate action, endurance, and the enduring power of the wild.
Possible main route
Conceptual map built as a reference for the trip
UPDATED VERSION OF THE TROLLEY (V3 _ June 2026)
This new version of the trolley can be packed into two suitcases despite its bulky appearance. It features a new foldable solar panel system composed of two panels, both detachable and rotating around a pivot under the deck, allowing adjustment based on the sun's direction.
The solar panel frame is also detachable at both the front and back and supported by a foldable structure made from walking sticks. When disassembled, the components collapse into a compact square. The electricity generated travels through cables beneath the frame directly to the motor.
This trolley includes a top-accessible bag for personal belongings and a removable box that opens from the top and sides. On each side, standard bicycle panniers provide additional storage and can be easily detached. The main structure, including the collapsible box, is designed for minimal bulk. Underneath, a soft water tank with a capacity of approximately five or six liters is stored for emergencies.
A major innovation in this design is the drive system, which uses a repurposed electric skateboard motor mounted on a smaller wheel that presses against the main wheel. When the smaller wheel spins, it drives the larger one through direct contact. After extensive prototyping and numerous failures, I found the most effective method involved rubber-on-rubber contact between the wheels. This setup reduces erosion and is durable over time.
A critical challenge I encountered in previous versions was a lack of friction in wet conditions. In Norway, rain caused the drive wheel to slip. To address this, I introduced a spring mechanism that applies constant pressure between the two wheels. The pressure is adjustable, and the system now performs reliably even when wet.
The front section of the trolley has also been significantly improved. Previously, I used a central double wheel, which destabilized the trolley and frequently broke. I replaced it with two smaller wheels, similar to those found on baby strollers, which offer greater strength and stability. I also incorporated a shock absorption system inspired by skateboard trucks, which enhances performance over uneven terrain and curbs.
The trolley’s center of gravity is now lower, improving overall stability. I modified the final section of the walking stick support using a thicker aluminum tube, bent at approximately 30 degrees to provide ergonomic alignment from hand height to hip level during use.
The electronics are housed beneath the deck in a waterproofed toolbox located under the solar panel array. Airline regulations prohibit carrying electric bike batteries due to their power and lithium content. However, power tool batteries are allowed, so I use those instead. These batteries are charged by the solar panels through a charge controller and supply power to the motor via a control unit.
Last year, due to time constraints, I made some errors in preparing for my trip. This time, I started the elecronics system from scratch, collaborating with others to correct past mistakes, now is simple, reliable, and modular. I can remove the box, transport it separately, and recharge the batteries using either solar energy or a standard power outlet at a campsite or other facilities.