I’m Francesca Menghini (b. 1987), an Italian photographer based in Amsterdam.
After some years as an autodidact, in 2021 I began studying photography at a degree level. I aim to finish my studies and achieve a BA (Hons) in Photography at Falmouth University (Falmouth Flexible), UK, in 2024.
In my approach, I explore the conceptual meaning behind the objects I capture, elevating ordinariness, to represent photographically interior worlds and beliefs.
Using different narratives, I also investigate themes of identity, social issues and human rights, through personal projects and collaborations.
In my personal work, I have the freedom to explore and experiment with different approaches. This allows me to delve deeply into the issues that matter to me, and to develop my own voice as a photographer.
By working with people with similar values and goals, I can combine my vision with the perspectives of others who share my passion for encouraging positive social change. Collaborations allow me to connect with individuals working towards common goals and amplify our collective message through our shared points of view.
Encouraging dialogue, sharing stories, and actively listening to each other is critical.
In Displacement and resilience, I seek to raise awareness of the ongoing impact of war in Ukraine on civilians and of the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees. I believe it is crucial to encourage action towards supporting those affected by war and displacement.
In my ongoing project, Unbounded – Being Gender Diverse, I aim to change the way in which we stereotype gender. I can demonstrate that the world has a full spectrum of gender identities beyond the traditional binary of male and female.
Photography allows me to connect with the world around me, and capturing individuals through the lens has enabled me to encounter many interesting people. As a result, I have become more empathetic, respectful, and aware of the various realities experienced.
I strongly believe that images and stories can positively influence society by influencing opinions and instilling values. That is why I use photography as a means of awareness and social change.
Awards
AOP Emerging Talent Award 2021/22 Finalist
Solo Exhibitions
Soursop, Amsterdam, NL, 3/12/2022
Collective Exhibitions
- Chrysalid Gallery, Rotterdam, NL, 3-10/09/2022
- FujiFilm House of Photography, London, 15-31/07/2022
- Bistrot del Teatro, Viterbo, IT, 17-22/5/2022
- AOP Photography Awards Showcase, Village Underground Shoreditch London, 20/04/2022
- BROAD Magazine, Home Issue, 560 Gallery, Vancouver, Canada, 09/04/2022
- Loosenart Magazine/Gallery, Spazio Millepiani, Rome, IT, 17-26/03/2022
- Float Photo Magazine, Online, 18/10/2021
- Foley Gallery, New York City, 21/06/2021
- De Balie, Amsterdam, NL, 12/06/2021 – 27/06/2021
- The Holy Art Gallery, London, 28/04 – 5/05/2021
- Bargehouse Gallery, OXO Tower Wharf, London, 15/10 – 18/10/2020
- Morean Arts Center, St. Petersburg, Florida, 11/01 – 28/02/2020
- Keep the Moment, Den Haag, NL, 5/5/2019
Events
- She Takes Over Campaign, March 2022
- HagueTalks Event, Museon Den Haag, NL 31/03/2021
Nominations
- BarTur Photo Award Student Award 2022/ Faces of Humanity: Shortlisted
- AAP Magazine, #24 Portrait, 2022: Shortlisted
- Zealous Stories, Photography 2022: Shortlisted
- Zealous Stories, Photography 2021: Shortlisted
Publications
- Gay.it, 2022
- Brainto, 2022
- Curated by Girls, 2022
- AOP Awards Book, 2021/22
- BROAD Magazine, Home Issue, 2022
- LoosenArt, Exhibition Catalogue, printed and online, 2022
- CARG, 2021
- Bargehouse Gallery, Printed Exhibition Catalogue, 2020
- Morean Arts Center, Exhibition Catalogue, 2020
- Zizo Magazine, 2020