Collection

In a series of colourful patchworks, Małgorzata Mirga-­­­­­­­­­­­­Tas portrays contemporary Roma women who have decided to change the world. One of them is Delaine Le Bas, a British Roma artist and creator of the mobile Romani Embassy. Mirga-Tas describes her thus: “An incredible woman, strong, valiant and creative. An exceptional Roma artist. A loving sister and friend. Only with Delaine can we visit the Romani Embassy, which has an eye on the world.” The portrait of Delaine Le Bas is one of dozens of patchworks created as part of the project launched by curator Maria Lind @52proposalsforthe20s, devoted to artistic forecasts for the 2020s. Mirga-Tas imagines the immediate future as a time of leadership by strong, wise women—Roma activists, artists and political operatives. These women play a greater and greater role not only for the Roma community, but for the entire society.

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.