“dubai”?

This series (for which I don’t have a name yet) tells the story of a Roma community in the heart of my hometown Belgrade, where people live in makeshift homes under tough conditions. Unfortunately, illegal dumping from the city adds to their struggles, making lives for them and their children very unhealthy.

I met my friend Demuš a few years ago, and he introduced me to his community. Through my visits, I’ve been documenting their lives, trying not to focus on the darkness of their situation but on the joy that shines through, despite the challenges. My goal is to show the sweet moments and spirit of the people, celebrating their stories and the connections that bring them together. And to leave them some nice memories with my pictures.

This series is ongoing and brings me a lot of joy because I love documentary photography and pictures as memories. Where it’s not about the aesthetics but the subject and story.

Demuš used to call this place "Dubai", because next to their village is a company that produces concrete and there are a few sand mountains. Maybe this will be the title of this series one day…

Maša Stanić is part of »Guest Room: Christiane Monarchi & Eva Eicker«.

Check out her Artist Feature I want to scream so much but my vocal cords are chronically inflamed.