PT / EN
Romani song embroidered with human hair.
Photograph by Emília Rigová.
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The artist Emília Rigová brings the musical legacy of the Eastern European Romani community to remind us of the forced haircuts of Roma women during periods of repression. By incorporating the lyrics of an old Romani song, which says, "Do not cut my hair, I would rather go to the concentration camp," this artwork creates an intimate yet powerful space of memory and resistance. It combines physical elements—human hair, a traditional Romani scarf, and embroidered pieces—with an atmosphere that evokes not only memory and discomfort but also pride and determination. The work highlights the multiple symbolic cuts still present within the Portuguese Roma community, whether in discrimination or in the historical erasure of their existence within the European Roma context.
Emília Rigová is a Romani and Slovak artist who explores social stereotypes, the politics of the body, and gender, raising questions about the (in)visibility of Roma culture in society.
More information at:
https://emiliarigova.com/
Technical Sheet
Artwork specifications: Human hair, fabric with motifs from the Eastern European Romani heritage, embroidered cloth with human hair, and a sound installation with the voice of Maria Gil.
Acknowledgements: Portuguese Red Cross – Braga Branch, Geração Tecla, Maria Gil, Eva Danisova.