Rafael Y. Herman’s “ESSE,” opened a dialogue with his audience on the nature of light and dark, showcased in an interactive display meant to be viewed at night. Presented at Palermo’s historic Palazzo Sant’Elia, the show featured 16 monumental photographs depicting surreal landscapes, which Herman obtained through unique circumstances—their unnatural colors and alternate realities were captured in the dark.

“ESSE” was on view at Fondazione Sant’Elia from April 22—June 22, 2022.

Film: The South Face
Direction: Olivier Russo
Editing: Riccardo Raineri
Camera Operator: Giulio Magazzù
Sound: Alessandro D’India