URBAN Book Award goes to Maria Pansini for her evocative narration of Taranto’s complex identity
We are proud to announce that Maria Pansini has won the URBAN Book Award for her moving editorial documentary SEA, STEEL AND SORROW. This project explores the city of Taranto, Italy, and the devastating impact of industrialization on its rich history and environment.
Taranto, once a thriving hub of Magna Graecia, became the home of Europe’s largest steelworks in the 1960s. While the steel industry brought economic growth, it also led to severe environmental damage and a public health crisis. Through Pansini’s lens, we see the scars left by decades of industrial activity and the tension between Taranto’s glorious past and uncertain future. Her documentary serves as a stark reminder of the need for balance between industrial development and the preservation of nature and health.
Judge’s Comment
About Maria Pansini:
Graduated in Photography at the CFP Bauer School in Milan, Maria Pansini also holds a BA in Social Anthropology, specializing in historical and anthropological studies. She currently teaches History and Critique of Photography at the “Fiorito F Project” School of Photography and Cinematography in Bari. With extensive experience in journalism and music events, Maria has participated in various solo and group exhibitions in museums and galleries. Based in Bari, she continues to work actively in promoting and teaching photography through courses, workshops, and events.
WEB: mariapansini.wixsite.com/photography
IG: @mariapansini
Book Award Honorable Mentions
The judges were particularly impressed by these two projects, which stood out for their exceptional quality and originality:
Joseph Patronite – Americana
Joseph Patronite’s Americana offers a compelling and contemporary view of American life through a 180-page photographic essay. The project, which started in 2015 and continues into 2024, captures a wide range of themes from daily life and patriotism to political divides and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patronite’s candid and unposed photographs, processed with traditional techniques, provide a nuanced and impactful portrayal of modern America.
Tony Le – Urbanism
Tony Le’s Urbanism explores urbanization and city life with striking originality. His photographs offer a vivid and insightful look at urban spaces and their inhabitants. The project examines the interactions between people and their environments, providing a critical reflection on contemporary urban life.
