A cultural journey through portraits, stories, and community.

Forte Gentile Abruzzo

A photography and storytelling project by Associazione IRIS, celebrating the strength and kindness of Abruzzo’s people — both locals and newcomers — through art, identity, and connection.
View Exhibition Schedule

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Exploring Abruzzo Through Faces & Stories

Discover the people, traditions, and modern identities that define today’s Abruzzo through photography and storytelling.



A Traveling Celebration of Culture

Visit the Strong & Gentle exhibition across Cugnoli, Capestrano, and Bussi sul Tirino — free and open to all.

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Learn, Create, and Collaborate

Join photography and writing workshops that inspire connection and creativity within the local community.

Through Faces and Stories

Exploring Abruzzo

Strong & Gentle is one of IRIS’s flagship initiatives. Through photography and storytelling, it explores the lives and identities of people who call Abruzzo home — locals and newcomers alike.

The project redefines the traditional Abruzzese spirit of being “strong and gentle,” highlighting resilience, kindness, and connection.

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Exhibition Locations in 2025

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Hours of Creative Workshops

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Villages Connected

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Experience the Exhibition Across Abruzzo

Discover portraits and stories that reveal the strength and kindness of Abruzzo’s people. The exhibition “Forte e Gentile – I Volti dell’Abruzzo” opens this autumn, inviting everyone to experience the region’s evolving cultural identity.
































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Our Vision and Goals

IRIS aims to create a long-term framework for intercultural collaboration in Abruzzo. By linking municipalities, artists, schools, and local groups, the association revitalizes small villages and celebrates their heritage while welcoming new ideas and residents.
Together, we’re shaping a region where culture thrives through cooperation and kindness.

Cultural Identity

Showcasing diversity through art and storytelling.

Inclusion

Fostering dialogue between locals and internationals.

Education

Photography & writing workshops for residents.

Sustainability

Building a lasting cultural network in Abruzzo.

A digital space to connect.

The IRIS Community – Coming Soon


Create Your Profile

Connect with locals and artists who share your passion.


Join Cultural Groups

Collaborate, share ideas, and explore Abruzzo’s creativity together.


Attend Events Online & Offline

Stay updated and take part in IRIS activities online or in person.


Share Your Stories

Post photos, ideas, and experiences that inspire connection.


Visit Associazione IRIS

Partner and Sponsorship

Brands that Support Us

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Get Involved

Be Part of the Movement

Support Strong & Gentle by attending exhibitions, joining workshops, or volunteering for future cultural initiatives.
Together, we can preserve Abruzzo’s spirit — strong, gentle, and ever-evolving.
Join the IRIS Network