Pitoon 2025 - National Prize in memory of author Sergio Staino
In 2025, I entered the Pitoon contest with a muted, one-page comic titled 'Climbers'. The Pitoon prize was looking for an original story that could bring the famous 'Rock Drawings' of Val Camonica to life. These were discovered in 1960 and added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979 as Italy's first recognised site.
Thousands of figures and symbols have been officially recognised, with the oldest dating back to the 8th–6th millennium BC. While many more images are estimated to still be present on buried rocks, the meaning of these drawings has largely been analysed, yet there is still no overwhelming consensus on their exact purpose.
My short story offered a humorous take on the role of these drawings, interpreting them as guides that can help you climb mountains and also overcome yourself.
Winning first prize in the comics section was especially significant for me because, as a child, I used to improve my drawing skills by copying the drawings of 'Bobo', the famous comic strip created by Sergio Staino.
The prize was presented at the CAMUS Museo Camuno as part of a weekend-long celebration in Staino's memory. Those involved included:
VINCENZO MOLLICA (Video Intervento), SERGIO SECONDIANO SACCHI, BRUNA PINASCO STAINO, PAOLO HENDEL (Attore), LUCA BOTTURA, SIMONA BINNI, JOSHUA HELD, BRUNO LUVERÀ, ROBERTO VECCHIONI (video ricordo), SILVIA AMODIO, MARCO MADOGLIO, BEATRICE TASSONE, Partecipa DAVID RIONDINO
During the main evening event, I received a prize alongside Diana Caiuzzi for the Animation section. The prize was a locally made piece of artwork consisting of an engraved glass plate mounted on a wooden board.
Award ceremony - Teatro delle Ali, Breno (IT)
A visit to the exhibition Boh? BOBO! by Ellekappa - Laura Pellegrini
