ROMA BEYOND BORDERS EXHIBITION

 PHOTO EXHIBITION BY NIGEL DICKINSON
                                                                                    

                                                                                     FROM LIGHTHOUSE
This exhibition presents Roma as a people whose story is not written within one country’s borders. It is about a culture, a way of life across a continent. The pictures portray the Roma’s diaspora throughout Europe; a story of migration, persecution, and suffering. They are the object of racism, refugees of war and, in too many places, live in abject poverty.

Most Roma live in insular communities; they are proud, fiercely private, and distrustful of outsiders. They define their own cultural boundaries, they are extravagant and ostentatious, deeply religious, and keep strict codes of social etiquette. While Roma relate to their national origin, they identify most closely with the idea of family, tradition, and of a people.

Strong emotional bonds draw Nigel back to visit and live with Roma year after year. He has worked to expose the systems that keep them down, and explain the circumstances of their departure. While each image tells a story, together, the photographs are a testimony to European Romani life experience, their vibrant culture, and identity.

Roma Beyond Borders: Exhibition Opening & Talk

Thu 17 Jun, 6.30 – 8.30pm, Admission free

Nigel will be making a special visit from his home in Paris to give an illustrated talk about Roma and other work from his 30 year career in photojournalism and documentary filmmaking. The talk will take place from 7 – 8pm, then join us in the gallery for a glass of wine and a chance to preview Nigel’s work. For info on Nigel Dickinson visit www.nigeldickinson.com