Collection

This work arose as part of the project @52proposalsforthe20s, launched by the curator Maria Lind. Lind asked 52 artists how they envisioned the approaching decade of the 2020s. Małgorzata Mirga-Tas created dozens of portraits of inspiring Romani women she knows personally or whose work she admires: strong women conscious of their rights and values. Adela Głowacka, presented in this tapestry, lives in Radom. She is a social activist and a member of the association Romano Waśt (Helping Hand), which is involved in the protection of Romani identity and social integration of different cultures. She is also the caretaker of a Jewish cemetery in Radom.

Although traditionally in the Romani community men hold the highest position in the hierarchy, currently throughout Europe it is women who are becoming leaders in Romani communities. According to Mirga-Tas, in the new decade this trend will grow even stronger. Romani women are increasingly becoming educated, speaking out on important issues, and working as activists to create a better future for themselves and their community.

Visual artist. Graduate of the Faculty of Sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków. She creates sculptures and patchworks from textiles and clothing, often coming from family and friends and reflecting their favourite apparel. The distinct technique of her work is characterized by eclectic, carefully selected materials and an unusual play of patterns and colours. In her work she presents individuals and historical events important for the Romani society, as well as scenes from the everyday life of her family and neighbours.

She is the organizer and curator of the Romani Art project and the annual International Event of Roma Art in Czarna Góra “Jaw Dikh!” (Come, see!) She is involved in combating exclusion and discrimination against the Romani as well as dispelling stereotypes through artistic actions. She took part in the 3^rd Art Encounters Biennial in Timișoara, Romania (2019) and the 11^th Berlin Biennale for Contemporary Art (2020). She lives and works in the village of Czarna Góra.