Camilla Alberti Selected for the First Edition of Mozita 50, a Residency in Mozambique for Italian Artists

Mozita 50, the first artist residency dedicated to promoting contemporary art, curated by Valentina Ciarallo, promoted by Renco S.p.A. and with the patronage of the Italian Embassy in Maputo, has been launched. The residency, which is by invitation, aims to become an annual appointment and offers a unique opportunity for Italian artists wishing to undertake a path of research and experimentation outside their usual context, engaging with a new cultural, social, and environmental horizon. The goal of the residency is the creation of a work that emerges from the dialogue and cross-pollination with Mozambican culture.

Mozambique, rich in history and culture, expresses its artistic vitality through a mosaic of traditions and influences. The capital, Maputo, is its creative hub, with galleries, cultural centers, and artist collectives fueling a dynamic environment that is constantly evolving and open to international dialogue.

The residency includes moments of sharing and exchange with an "open studio" for the public presentation of the work and research processes developed during the stay at the Italian Embassy in Maputo, as well as a workshop with the artist at Renco S.p.A. in Italy.

Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Pesaro, Renco is an Italian company active in the energy EPC sector, infrastructure investment development, and real estate, with a consolidated presence in several countries across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Present since 2013, Renco has consolidated a significant presence in Mozambique, complementing its classic EPC Contractor activity with the development of its own investments in major energy, logistics, and tourism projects, particularly in the north of the country.

The artist selected for the first edition is Camilla Alberti, who from October 30 to November 30 will undertake the residency experience in the Mozambican capital to create an original work destined to be exhibited at the Italian Embassy in Maputo.

Born in Milan in 1994, Camilla Alberti conducts research into the transformation of matter through discarded objects, drawing inspiration from ancient techniques and alchemical practices. She investigates how the decay of these materials reveals the interconnections within the ecosystem. Her research includes collaborations with scientists, most recently at the Institute of Biology in Graz, Austria, where she studied the symbiotic relationships of lichens.

She has participated in international research residencies, including LaWayaka Current in the Atacama Desert, Chile (2023), where she explored weaving techniques in relation to shamanic practices and Andean cosmogony, and the MMCA Changdong Residency at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, where she continued her study of shamanic practices related to the transformation of matter in the Korean Mudang traditions.

Her work has recently been exhibited at: Kunsthaus Graz (2025); Triennale Milano (2025); Swivel Gallery, New York (2025); Central Pavilion of the Malta Biennale (2024), Malta; GIAF23, Gangneung, South Korea (2023); Italian Pavilion, 14th Gwangju Biennale, South Korea (2023); Akademie Graz (2023); Palazzo Vecchio and Museo Novecento (2022); Palazzo Strozzi (2021) in Italy; Schloss Eggenberg Archaeological Museum, Austria (2021).

Her work is currently on view at the 18th Quadriennale d'Arte at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome.