Calcinera, a small hamlet in Caprie in the lower Val di Susa, can be reached only on foot, along a mule track through the woods. Calcinera Lab is developing a cultural space there, with plans for activities that extend to the approach path and the trees around the buildings.
Founded by Corrado Rampa, a specialist in systemic design, and Silvia Maritano, a researcher in sustainable development, the project brings contemporary culture and rural life together through an ARCI cultural association. Its opening event, Prime Luci, took place on 19 September, with DJ sets by Fermenti and Kelem and visual installations curated by Lorena.
Maritano says the visuals were projected onto the stage and DJ booth structures, as well as the trees, with the aim of connecting participants with the place. The woods are intended to become part of the cultural space: plans include installations along the mule track, alongside music events, book presentations and workshops on knowledge and practices of mountain life.
The programme also includes a proposal called 'Weekend Residenti': stays for people who want to spend a few days living and working in the area. Artistic and scientific residencies are also being considered. These stays are intended to involve people who want to spend longer in the hamlet than an event allows.
For Maritano, these plans serve a wider aim: bringing land and buildings back into use through new economic activities and collaborations.
To sustain the activities, the association plans to renovate its indoor spaces. Maritano says they could open in 2027. The longer-term aim is to encourage new activities and new ways for people to spend time in the hamlet.
