Her, who sees differently : Ona, která vidi jinak : Voi, kai dukel aver fealo

Jun 23

Roma community artist Marie Balogova, an ordinary woman with a genetic eye defect, held her first ever solo exhibition on Saturday 21 marking mark Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. Her exhibition titled ‘Her, who sees differently’ explores themes of identity, faith and inner world through abstract paintings. This is an insight into the event through photography and the words of the artist herself.

Words by Romano Lav & Marie Balogova | Photos by Iain McLellan

When Community Renewal:Rom Romeha reached out to Romano Lav in hopes of finding a space to showcase Marie's art, we jumped at the chance. The two organisations worked with Marie who was able to prepare and present her work in just under three weeks, pulling her first public exhibition together quickly and with quiet confidence - creating 4 new pieces especially for the exhibition.

Marie, 31, originally from Ostrava in the Czech Republic, made Glasgow her home in 2015. She is a mother of three, and while raising her children, she nurtured her passion for painting: “I am a busy mum of 3, but I always make time for my art.”

Her artworks had never left the walls of her home until now: “I never thought I’d have an exhibition,” Marie shared, “I just painted for myself. My art wasn’t meant for anyone else until someone believed in me.”

Struggling with self-doubt and navigating the challenges of being a Roma woman in a new country, Marie has found encouragement in her family: “I don't really believe in myself. I only have my husband and kids here, no other support. It’s hard, especially being a Roma woman,” she says, “But my family is so proud of me and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

*Press photo of Marie Balogova with a selection of her artwork, courtesy of Romano Lav*

Marie’s work is deeply personal and spiritual. She found her artistic voice during a difficult period of her life, facing severe hip problems and limited mobility. It was her faith that gave her strength and her first inspiration. “God was the only thing that inspired me when I was struggling with my health,” she says, “Painting gave me hope that I would heal.”

Despite being colour blind, she creates vibrant, expressive works. Her young daughter helps her identify colours, and her husband, recognising her passion, gifted her her first proper painting materials.

Although there is a huge amount of local talent in more traditional forms of Romani creative and cultural expression such as music and dance, community members engaging in visual art practice is rare. With no training or likeminded peers, Marie has had the courage to create and now show her private artwork to the world for the first time - challenging stereotypes and inspiring other young Roma women.

We are honoured to be present for this stage in her journey, and excited to see what is next for her. Marie herself professes to be a beginner, stating: “I don’t want to be compared to professionals. I paint in my own way, and I’d just be glad if people came to see it.”