Alessio Cabras, EUCALYPTUS

For photographer Alessio Cabras, “Eucalyptus” is a metaphorical title for the subject of his ongoing project about the militarization of the Italian region of Sardinia. He explains that the eucalyptus tree shares a similar cultural story to his native Sardinia as the country’s military. “The eucalyptus was imported for its reclamation properties over a swamp without considering the fact that, with its huge roots, it has a tendency to colonize the environment, obstructing the development of the local flora,” he says. “The [military] bases too were brought with the deception of big ‘wealth promises’ without the common sense of thinking for the local communities.”

Having grown up near a military airport, Cabras dove into his project while working on his master’s degree in documentary photography at Scuola Romana di Fotografia e Cinema in Rome. He based his work on personal experiences from his proximity to the base. “Armies from all [over] the world have been testing armaments in the area for more than 50 years, with strong impacts on the population and environment.” He adds that an investigation into the “Poisons of Quirra,” launched in 2001, has brought to trial eight ex-commanders of that weaponstesting range.

As with many projects focused on military or government sectors, access proved to be his biggest challenge. “Many of the areas, such as beaches, are closed all year for military training except during summer when they are opened for bathing.”

While documenting this weighty subject, Cabras has infused the pictures with his own sense of artistry. He combines depictions of physical artifacts with portraiture of people affected by the militarization, hoping to raise awareness of the issue. “I do not think that, with this project, the situation will change,” Cabras confides. “However, I am hopeful because I see more people interested in the matter.”

—Jack Crager

Photos © Alessio Cabras instagram.com/alessio_cabras_