Eyes open and teary…

26th March 2015

The latest trip to Romania was a real eye opener. I’ve seen poverty worldwide from Ghana to Glasgow but the Roma estate we visited was a real shock to the system. As we entered a lady in her late 50’s clambered out from a skip and crossed our path, my eyes following her as I thought of my mum.

This building was packed full of residents: a noisy, lively and wild estate. The people were curious and we were fortunate enough to meet some lovely folk who were helpful and kind with their time. Without the tilt of a 5×4, some height and distance this image only gives a small insight into the flats but it’s fun to search the nooks and crannies for signs of life. I would like to return and continue working with people there, I have no doubt there are many tales untold. When I left I felt a bit numb and totally helpless. I brought thank you gifts for the children and familes and asked if I could make a donation somehow but ultimately it was hopeless. The community centre/NGO on site is doing an incredible job and it was so inspiring to see them work so hard despite the David & Goliath situation. I wonder what the answer is…

The next image was in The Sunday Times last weekend. Nancy Tucker was my subject and it was a delight to see that the mag chose a few frames I decided to shoot on film. I wanted to simply communicate the burdens of having a disordered voice in your head , that at times can distort reality and blur a sense of rationality. We discussed how recovery isn’t an end product; it’s simply the desire to pursue a path towards health, happiness and self-appreciation. Thanks to Nancy for being so open minded and game.

OAO x