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FIAP EVENTS FIAP EVENTS

Blue Dream

By Antonella Tomassi
MFIAP, EFIAP/d3, PFIAP, EPSA, GPU VIP4, GPU Cr4
Italy

Antonella Tomassi was born in Pisa and lives in Scandicci
FIAP Events self-taught photographer, driven by a passion for travel and a FIAP Events
(Florence). A banker by profession, she began her career as a

desire to capture the emotions of these experiences through
photography. She developed a real passion, particularly for
photojournalism, which led her to participate in various
seminars and courses. Since 2007, she has been a member
of the “IL Cupolone” Photography Group in Florence and was
elected as the group’s president in March 2026. Over the years,
Antonella Tomassi she has participated in the FIAP World Cup for Clubs with this
club during which time the club team won the “FIAP Bronze
Medal” in 2016, the “XVI FIAP World Cup” in 2021, and the “FIAP Bronze Medal” in 2025. Finally,
she individually won the joint 2nd prize for “Author of the Year FIAF Tuscany 2021.”

Losing yourself among the infinite shades of blue in the streets of Chefchaouen, in
its medina that climbs the mountain, amidst alleys, houses, and dreamlike visions of blue,
was a unique experience. Walls, doors, windows, and balconies, but also narrow streets and
stairways, shops, fountains, and flowerpots: everything is a palette of infinite shades of blue,
like an ancient ocean where you can sail freely and lose yourself. Chefchaouen possesses a
special charm, made of discretion, courtesy, and hospitality. Its blue, a noble colour, and all
the myriad nuances of the medina give it a relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Hidden in
the Rif Mountains to the north, long isolated, it was one of Morocco’s best-kept secrets for
so long that no one knows for sure when or why the custom of painting buildings blue was
introduced. It is said that the city was painted blue by Jews who had fled there to escape
persecution in Europe, for whom the colour blue symbolized paradise.

Strolling through Chefchaouen’s narrow streets, it’s impossible not to stop and admire
the houses and artisan workshops that adorn the streets. Cars are prohibited on the streets,
leaving children free to play. When I photograph, I really enjoy establishing relationships with
the locals, entering their homes and conversing, often through gestures.

Photographing people in this country is very difficult due to their religion. I had no
problems, although I confess it wasn’t easy. I managed to gain their trust by approaching
them, smiling, and showing them my cameras. They let me in and showed me their homes. I
always smile and perhaps with this I convey my passion to them. Also, the women especially,
were intrigued by my photography equipment.
I began taking photographs in 2006, after my daughter died of a rare disease. For this
reason, I often stop to play with the children, to whom I feel very close, and I manage to
capture some magical moments. For me, photography has been, and continues to be, a
psychological therapy and a lifelong companion! Receiving the MFIAP distinction for this
work made me very happy because, while carrying it out, I experienced a dream coloured in
blue.
To see the complete set of images with which Antonella Tomassi gained her MFIAP, go to:
https://www.fiap.net/en/portfolios/mfiap/antonella-tomassi

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