I took refuge in the arts to escape from identitarian and linguistic constraints. Strongly inspired by personal experiences and the contexts in which I grew up, namely the border lands of South Tyrol and the Ticino, my research is often based on research methodologies that are formally translated into artistic languages speaking of the subversion of minorities and majorities. In particular, South Tyrol is an area afflicted by an identitarian diplopia, where I struggle on a daily basis to develop personal and professional relationships that are not subject to ethnically-loaded judgements. Around this very issue revolves my work as a whole.

My artistic research is a constant attempt to reflect on the idea of the ‘other’ and to subvert this same concept. I have been doing so since my time at university, where I studied Oriental languages and cultures, shifting the idea of the ‘other’ from a local to a global dimension. Addressing the stakes of cultural belonging, in particular when this is forced upon rather than felt or experienced, induces me to sympathise with the new migrant communities.

My work comprises photos, videos, maps and documents that chart the territory where I live geographically, socially and conceptually. In so doing, I develop work clusters to which I add chapters over time.

Nicolò Degiorgis
January 2022