I Peri N’Tera: A study of the migrant crisis in Sicily, Italy
Images by Daniel Castro Garcia

While looking at these images of young migrants in a rural Sicilian migration centre for male unaccompanied minors, there is a sense of peace. Maybe it’s because of the soft colors, the beautiful landscapes, or maybe it’s because when these young boys and men stare directly into the camera, time stops.
These images are part of Peri N’Tera (Feet on the Ground), a long term project by photographer and filmmaker Daniel Castro Garcia. Alongside his partner and producer Jade Morris, he documented the life of the adolescents living in the Zingale-Aquino reception centre. With this project, Garcia and Morris defy the one sided narrative thrown to the general public by mainstream media outlets, who define migrants with negative stereotypes and generalizations, by working alongside them so that their stories are being told.

Without vilifying or sanctifying anyone, but by simply producing their testimonies and saying their names, Garcia is able to portray these migrants and refugees with dignity and respect. Once the images are put into context and you are able to read about the trauma and the struggles these migrants and refugees face, you realize that the gazes into the camera or off into the horizon are of uncertainty. There is no peace if you are in limbo. This project started in 2015, it’s ongoing and is currently looking for funding.

For more information about this project, check out Daniel Castro Garcia’s website and follow him on Instagram.