Photo Series Entry

The Gypsies belong to the most numerous ethnic group in Slovakia. They differ from the majority society and also other minorities by their origin, language, way of living. The Gypsy family represents even today the traditional type of multigenerational family and is strongly patriarchal. The man has the dominant status, he is the head of family, the mother, highly respected by the Gypsies, is responsible for the household and education of children. Having more children has still high value in the Gypsy society. A woman with many children has got a higher status in the community than a woman with less children, without children she is almost worthless. That is the reason why for a Gypsy woman having children has the highest value. The children are for them the biggest wealth and fortune. They say: “No children, no happiness!“ No children, no happiness! is a long-term project presenting a subjective dialogue between traditional old and new generation, which follows children who grow up in their environment, being part of the Gypsy community. The intension of this project is to overcome prejudice and provide a positive look about the world in which they live today.