Avanzi
Emma Ferruzzi
Loss is often marked by absence, yet memory allows us to preserve presence. My work explores the traces left behind by those who have passed, ensuring that their essence lingers in meaningful, tangible ways. Avanzi is an ongoing publication series that reflects on death through the intimate fragments left behind by loved ones who have passed away. The title, meaning "leftovers" in Italian, symbolizes the fragments of memories, sensations, and lessons that remain. By weaving sensory experiences with personal narratives, I seek to transform mourning into remembrance, shifting the conversation about death from sorrow to celebration.
Each issue of Avanzi is structured around a personal story, dedicated to someone special to me who has passed. These narratives are constructed through a combination of visual and textual storytelling, incorporating narrative histories, recipes tied to memory, places of significance, and heartfelt letters. Additional artifacts and elements unique to each individual reinforce the deeply personal nature of the work, ensuring that every issue is as unique as the person it honors. The result is a format that balances structure with open-ended exploration, inviting readers to engage with grief in a personal and reflective manner.
By incorporating typography, layout, and sensory imagery, I position design as an active participant in storytelling—one that not only preserves memory but also fosters connection across time. My project speaks to those grappling with grief, offering them a way to hold onto their loved ones with less sorrow and more warmth.