Center Amalipe opened two thematic photo exhibitions on the occasion of the anniversary edition of the Children’s Roma Festival “Open Heart”.

As part of the anniversary edition of the Children’s Roma Festival, two impressive thematic photo exhibitions were opened. They were displayed in front of the “Raphael Mihaylov” Exhibition Halls and aimed to celebrate the 20-year history of the festival, which has dedicated its efforts to children and their role in society.

The first exhibition presents unforgettable moments from the festival’s 20-year journey and traces the evolution of the event over the years. The images, capturing joyful moments and emotional encounters, were collected thanks to the talent of several established photographers, including Radostina Petkova, Vikhren Georgiev, David Georgiev, Raycho Vasilev, Petar Drumev, and Zdravko Nikolov. Through the lens of each of them, viewers can feel the spirit of the festival—its significance and impact not only on the Roma community but also on the broader public.

Citizens and visitors of the city had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere that the festival brought. These moments not only tell stories but also inspire, showing how art serves as a bridge between different cultures and communities.

The second exhibition is the work of photographer Radostina Petkova and is titled “The Power of the Roma Woman: Stories Through the Lens.” This display focuses on the importance of Roma women in society and their continuous contribution to public life. Through portraits and everyday moments of Roma women, Petkova presents their stories, struggles, and successes, which reveal not only their individual but also their collective spirit. This exhibition emphasizes the significance of the female role within the Roma community and encourages viewers to rethink stereotypes about Roma women.

About her work, she says:

“I will tell you a story—but not with thousands of words, rather with photographs. Because sometimes I don’t feel like speaking, sometimes I just want to Feel… ‘I believe there are things I would never see if I didn’t photograph them,’ once thought an American photographer from the not-so-distant past… After taking countless photos of Roma women and children, I dare to claim these words as my own. Photography is a ‘Secret about a Secret’… Look into the eyes of the Roma woman and you will discover the secret—and if your soul is perceptive, you will also feel my message. Look into her sadness, her resilience, her fiery spirit, her beautiful smile. Feel the feminine power carried by the winds of the past and bring it into the present… Because, regardless of her ethnicity, a Woman must be a Woman—fighting for her rights, brave, educated, beautiful, and loved.”

These two photo exhibitions are not just a visual component of the festival but also serve as a platform for dialogue about Roma culture and identity. The event reaffirmed its role not only as a celebration for children but also as an important social occasion that unites and inspires. Viewers passing through the exhibitions could not only enjoy the art but also engage in a broader discussion about acceptance, respect, and diversity in society. The festival, with the help of these two exhibitions and its accompanying events, leaves a mark in the hearts of all who believe in the power of virtues, culture, and human connection.

Here you can view the full exhibition “20 Years with Open Heart: From Traditions to Dreams.”

Here you can view the full exhibition “The Power of the Roma Woman: Stories Through the Lens.”

The exhibitions “20 Years with Open Heart: A Bridge from Traditions to Dreams” and “The Power of the Roma Woman: Stories Through the Lens” are part of the 20th Children’s Roma Festival “Open Heart” and are realized with the financial support of the National Culture Fund under the project “Open Heart – 20 Years of Celebrating Cultural Diversity,” contract No. F-S-2024-22 / 20.12.2024.