Photomontage Eastern Europe (Romania)

The main idea of doing a photomontage, or collage, is that those who are not very familiar with the stereotypes or characteristics of certain countries may find a visual aid to create a mental image of what that country represents. Personally, I think this was an opportunity for mixing art with research and create a dynamic piece which can help illustrate people and, in a way, encourage tourism and culture. However, I am very much aware that stereotypes are common, so I think that this work should be complimented with the warning that this is the way some view the people or the country, and that not everyone is like that. The region my collage was inspired by is Eastern Europe, composed of countries like Croatia, Serbia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Poland and Moldova. I have to say that it was a very challenging project, since this region is far apart and is often forgotten by the rest of the world.

                Common stereotypes of this region are located upon Romania, and they mainly have to do with either vampires or superstition. In my photomontage there is an image of a vampire, portrayed by Johnny Depp, of which I am particularly fond of. It is set on the far right and he has his finger lifted, as if contradicting someone. I liked this because it could mean that, even though there are vampires in the collage, there are not in the actual Romania. Also I included tarot cards –lifted by an energetic yellow hand –, a coffin, a beautiful woman –because the main stereotype about woman in those regions is that they are extremely beautiful –, a man shouting while protecting two women, and a manifestation.

                I think these images, especially the latest, symbolize how volatile people might consider these countries by the mere idea that they are in constant political struggles. It is true that, in the past, countries like Serbia and Hungary have been famous for their rebellions; furthermore, they are known for the untrained armies known as Cossacks. Because of this historical view we have been struck by the idea that Hungarians, Serbians or Romanians are incapable of self-control and, if one goes visit and insults them in any way, they might grab a sword and kill you. This is only complemented by the notion that these people still live in dark stone castles or in the country side like peasants did centuries ago.

                Finally, and what’s most important or attractive about my montage, is that there is a man standing beside a castle and staring at the map. His clothing is old and poor and the colors are always dark –like blue or black –so that we can get a notion of older times. In the map we have the region of Eastern Europe and that is representative. These countries are known for their anonymity, mainly because no one knows –or cares –where they are located. I think it is a good touch and it helps people become aware of what is the region they expect to understand.