Tourists in kimonos (Gion district), Massimo Pacifico
Opening June 5, Florence’s Anthropology Museum will host an impressive exhibition, FloKyo 1965-2015, featuring photojournalist Massimo Pacifico’s photography to celebrate 50 years of partnership between the two cities.
The exhibition will feature 100 images of everyday life and history in Florence and Kyoto, celebrating their sisterhood of half a century, a partnership founded on culture and peace. This photographic dialogue will create a new bridge between these ancient cities, which represent parallel, though geographically far apart, civilizations.
The main goal of the event is to remember the fraternal pact made toward the end of the Fifties by Florence mayor Giorgio La Pira during a season of major international repair, an action continued by his successor Lelio Lagorio.
With the backing of Florence city council, the twinning between the two cities will be renewed on June 9 in the presence of Japanese delegates.
Musicians attributed to Benedetto da Maiano, Bargello Museum
The sequence of images proposes both similarities and differences. Aspects of culture are contrasted, such as the solid palaces of stone and marble churches in Italy compared to the fragile, wooden temples found in Japan. Young tourists are shown in kimonos, which reflect sculptures by Benedetto da Maiano. Both selfies and photos captured by ordinary cameras will be displayed. Worn-out horses are displayed on one side and endangered humans on the other.
In essence, the exhibition is a symphony of songs and counter melodies, made up of ordinary street scenes, costumes, important monuments and moments chosen to represent the historical centers of the two cities, their successes and their partnership through UNESCO.
Flo•Kyo 1965-2015. Firenze e Kyoto città gemelle
Museo di Antropologia
via del Proconsolo 12, Florence
055/2756444
June 5-July 31
Open every day 10.30am-5.30pm, closed Wednesday
Adults 6 euro, discounted 3 euro
