Objects Left Behind

Every year, ten of thousands of „undocumented“ people cross the Mediterranean on flimsy boats in search for freedom, dignity and a better life in Europe. For many, the island of Lampedusa close to the Tunisian coast is the first point of entry. The book unpacks personal items left behind on the shores. These objects bear witness of departure, loss and leaving, of leaving part of one's past and personal history behind. At the same time, they testify to venturing out, to challenging boarders and limits, to seizing one's destiny, to dreaming another life and to contest limits of hospitality and mobility.