The Roboteca is a participative photography workshop centered on the concept of robot portraits and dedicated to displaced, migrant, and refugee populations, as well as host communities. By repurposing the method of facial recomposition, the Roboteca becomes a tool for expression, denunciation, and social cohesion (see previous projects). It also touches on writing and storytelling, aiming to be a catalyst for shared stories, encounters, and memories, putting words and faces to the journey of exile in the form of an exquisite corpse. A new identity emerges through cultural mixing and exchange.
Inspired by art therapy, the Roboteca functions as a discussion group. Artistic practice is used as a psychological tool to initiate both internal and collective reconstruction. The senses are awakened, and participants of all ages and backgrounds look at each other and cry – eyes; feel and breathe – noses; listen and understand each other – ears; shout and denounce – mouths. Working from photos taken during studio photography workshops, participants assemble pieces of faces to create new ones and give them a voice. These robotic portraits give birth to new, imperfect faces that fit together as best they can. In the corners of the eyes and around the lips, the scars on these faces bear witness to the path of exile – first on the road, and then here, during the process of socio-cultural integration.
