Selma Selman‘s ‘600 Years of Migrant Mothers‘ Exhibition Unveils Roma Lineage
Table of Contents
- Selma Selman’s ‘600 Years of Migrant Mothers’ Exhibition Unveils Roma Lineage
- Unveiling invisible Histories
- The Personal is Political: Genealogy and Roma Identity
- Visualizing the displaced Female Experience
- Collaboration and Curation
- Selma Selman: An Artist of roma Origin
- Evergreen Insights: Roma history and Cultural Preservation
- Frequently Asked Questions About Roma Culture and Art
Kunsthuis SYB is currently hosting “600 Years of Migrant Mothers,” a solo exhibition by Bosnian artist Selma Selman, showcasing a powerful exploration of her roma heritage. The exhibition, which opened recently, features a collection of monumental paintings, films, drawings, and extensive research materials, offering a poignant look into the lives of Selman’s female ancestors (Artsy).
Unveiling invisible Histories
Selman’s exhibition is the culmination of a larger research project focused on tracing her maternal lineage back six centuries. Her work aims to give visibility to the women who shaped her identity but often remain unseen in historical narratives. “600 Years of Migrant Mothers” delves into the complex relationship between knowledge and power, questioning who has access to their ancestral stories and how this access influences broader political dynamics.
Did You Know? The Roma people are considered one of the largest ethnic minorities in Europe, with a history marked by migration and marginalization (Council of Europe).
The Personal is Political: Genealogy and Roma Identity
Selman explores how stories passed down through generations are often lost or inaccessible, particularly within marginalized communities. Genealogy, the practice of tracing family history, becomes a powerful tool for Selman, illustrating the feminist principle that “the personal is political.” By unpacking her female family lineage, she confronts years of displacement experienced by Roma communities in Southeast Europe. In cities like Prishtina, Sarajevo, and Bihać, patriarchal traditions frequently enough prioritize male lineage, making Selman’s focus on maternal ancestry a radical act of reclamation.
Visualizing the displaced Female Experience
The artworks in “600 Years of Migrant Mothers” possess a haunting quality. A metal diptych immortalizes women from different generations, with an eyeless self-portrait of the artist receiving their sight. The exhibition also incorporates books, drawings, film footage, and sounds gathered from Roma graveyards, juxtaposed with scenes from a wedding. When historical facts are missing or deliberately erased, Selman uses imagination as a tool to reconstruct these blind spots, offering a connection to the future. The central question of her work is: How can we visualize the world from the perspective of the displaced female?
Pro Tip: Consider exploring local genealogical societies or online databases to trace your own family history and uncover hidden stories.
Collaboration and Curation
This solo exhibition marks Selma Selman’s debut in the bilingual region of friesland and is curated by Arnisa zeqo. The new series of works were co-commissioned with Arcadia for the exhibition Paradys, in collaboration with curator Hans den Hartog Jager. The project also includes research into roma communities in Prishtina, conducted by Blerta Ismaili and CHwB Kosovo.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Artist | Selma Selman |
| Exhibition Title | 600 Years of Migrant Mothers |
| Location | Kunsthuis SYB, Friesland |
| Curator | Arnisa Zeqo |
| Themes | roma heritage, female lineage, displacement, memory |
Selma Selman: An Artist of roma Origin
Selma Selman, born in 1991 in Bihac, Bosnia and Herzegovina, identifies as an artist of Roma origin. Her work often draws inspiration from her personal experiences and addresses the challenges faced by the Roma community [[3]]. Selman’s art spans various mediums, including performance, painting, photography, and video installations [[2]].
Evergreen Insights: Roma history and Cultural Preservation
The Roma people have a rich and complex history, marked by centuries of migration, cultural adaptation, and resilience.Understanding their history is crucial to addressing the ongoing challenges of discrimination and marginalization they face today. Art, like Selma Selman’s exhibition, plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating Roma culture, providing a platform for Roma voices and perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roma Culture and Art
- What are some common misconceptions about the Roma people?
- Common misconceptions include the idea that all Roma are nomadic, that they are inherently criminal, and that they lack a distinct culture. In reality, the Roma are a diverse group with a rich cultural heritage and a long history of contributions to various societies.
- How can art contribute to a better understanding of roma culture?
- Art can challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and provide a platform for Roma artists to share their experiences and perspectives. It can also help to preserve and celebrate Roma cultural traditions.
What aspects of your family history would you like to explore through art or research? How can art help bridge cultural divides and promote understanding?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us spread awareness about the importance of cultural preservation!
