The red bench, inaugurated on March 8, 2016, is dedicated to women victims of violence. From an idea of the writer Karim Cherif realized in the city of Turin, the red bench in Piazza Matteotti It aims to represent the "place occupied" by a woman who is a victim of femicide. Thus, a concrete symbol placed in public space, visible to all, of an absence in society caused by violence. And, before it, stands the neoclassical Church of St. Joseph.
The meaning
Specifically, the "Red Benches" project was born in 2014 in collaboration with Turin's District 6, the Equal Opportunities Committee, and the Acmos association to promote a campaign against violence against women. Specifically, the artist Karim Cherif painted eleven benches red with two large eyes, mirrors of the soul. After Turin, other Italian municipalities have joined the initiative. The red bench aims to be a symbol aimed at reflection with respect to a phenomenon that strongly involves society. Above all, a visible sign to break down the wall of indifference and raise awareness among everyone.
The red bench as a point of reflection
So, not just a place to sit and relax for a few hours. But above all, a different way to continue reflecting on a an increasingly current theme. And it's a way like any other to spread and demonstrate the practice of non-violence, which keeps femicide in high focus. Furthermore, it's an opportunity to keep in mind an issue that is a pressing one in Italy, with figures that unfortunately are updated daily.
The making of the red bench
The red bench of Piazza Matteotti It was made by two local street artists, the brothers Nima Tayebian and Luca Tayebian, aka PhlebohOn one side, the phrase of John Paul II was reported: “Violence destroys what it seeks to defend: the dignity, freedom and lives of people." While on the other side the face of a suffering woman is depicted, to symbolize all the victims of violence, both physical and psychological. Red is the chosen color to paint the wooden bench, a color that now refers to every awareness campaign against the femicide. Protest, denunciation, solidarity and hopeThe installation of the red bench aims to do this and more: share a problem affecting the victims of abuse and neglect that often creeps into homes, amidst a wall of silence and fear.
The purpose of installing the red bench
The aim is also to spread the initiative, involving different areas and the relevant municipalities, by reusing existing benches or installing new ones, to create a "red bench" trail in urban spaces. Its presence is intended to encourage citizens to not forget and to keep the alert high. In addition to this, it is important to remember that we must not accept any violent act, starting with the use of offensive expressions that are harmful to one's dignity. Therefore, the red bench is also architectural symbol, a visible and permanent warning. So that the citizens of San Benedetto del Tronto can be sensitized to such a timely issue.
Thanks for the cover image: Patrizia Cicconi
