THE STREETS OF TURIN

Text and photographs

by Paul Mattioli

Turin’s bustling city streets and commotion make this place seem like the New York of Italy: the crazy drivers, that weird smell that lingers wherever you go, the trash along the streets. But apart from evoking America’s Big Apple (aged by 1000 years) Turin can appear so unique and diverse, with each neighborhood having its distinct history standing proud. From the eye of a photographer, these humble streets can become masterpieces.

Due my newly born career in photography, I’ve been strolling through the centre of Turin passing iconic places such as Mole Antonelliana, Piazza Castello, and Via Roma. Even with the crowds there is always a moment of peace when a perfect image springs up for the taking. It could be a portrait of a city dweller or an abstract idea for a landscape. But any time I set out there is always a good photo hiding around the corner. I’ve come to learn that with photography, you always find the best photos in the most odd places.

Photography is not a solo sport. Each day I come across the rambunctious drivers who seem to have gotten their licenses from a cereal box. But I have also met wonderful people, some who I take portraits of, other like-minded photographers, or just passers-by asking to see the photo I just shot. They are all kind and respectful, from teens to those in their 70’s. My honest problem with first shooting photos were the people around me. I didn’t want to be stopped by a group of kids who persist for a photo, or from a “Karen” asking why I’m taking a photo of someone’s pet dog. But I can happily say I haven’t had to deal with those people, yet.

Turin is quite a city. Its ancient centre is the most diverse I’ve encountered. And its architecture conjures up so much history…being able to walk for no more than fifteen minutes and greet ex-fascist artifacts to storied structures that our great grandparents lived amongst…it’s a Piemont treasure that still holds the history of past events, even keeping the spoils of war in its architecture. When you stop and take a good look, you will be able to see what makes this city so special and a wonderful place to call home.