"Most of these pictures were taken during voluntary social work. Together with friends we try to make easier the unbearable social situation in segregated Roma villages and sites in Hungary.
However, art differs from social work. The deep, dark, shameful Hungarian poverty cannot be represented directly. Poverty is not romantic.
Taking photos is always a friendly gesture. Unlike street photography, it is very important for me to ask permission to take portraits. I can’t imagine more honorable act than somebody invites us to his/her home offers a part from his/her life to a stranger who he/she has never met before."
Zoltán Szarka, sociologist by degree, lives and works in Budapest. He is a member of "SZOCSOMA" foundation for Roma people in deep poverty. His primary photographic role models are the photographers of Farm Security Administration, especially Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans. His favorite contemporary photographer is Matt Black.
Opening speech by Andrea Tompa writer
The admission is free!