In May-July 2024, thirteen participants took part in the second edition of the Online Creative Residency from Europeana’s Digital Storytelling Festival. Maya Mircheva created beautiful collage art exploring Romani heritage.
Exploring the theme of 'journey', participants worked with mentors in animation, social media, collage art, storytelling with 3D, and creative writing.
About the author
Who am I?
I have always been fascinated with art and creativity. While I am currently working as an IT professional, I am studying for a degree in visual communications and I am particularly interested in the power of images as a storytelling tool. Lately, I have developed a keen interest in collage as a tool for artistic expression. I am particularly attracted by its versatility and unique ability to express complex or abstract ideas.
What is my project about?
My piece is a homage to the culture of Romani travellers. I wanted to approach the theme of ‘journey’ through the lens of the life of this ethnic group since journey or travelling is a big part of their identity. I used source material from Europeana.eu which would help me show their unique cultural heritage and celebrate some of the traditional Romani values - freedom, tradition, family and kin, pride and resilience.
Why did I apply to the Digital Storytelling Online Creative Residency?
I applied for the residency because collage is an important part of my emerging practice. I wanted to explore new sources of material, such as Europeana.eu, and learn new approaches and techniques.
I was also curious to learn more about the Europeana database and how to navigate its huge collections. Coming across copyright-free images for collage is challenging and in this sense Europeana.eu offers an unique opportunity for collage artists.
What have I got out of the residency?
My tutor Cosmina helped me look at collage in a different way. I discovered new ways to work with collage in a more seamless manner, a method which elevates the practice to the level of fine art. I also learned a structured way to brainstorm ideas and create a story on which to base my collage. Furthermore, I was encouraged to critically reflect on my work.
What will I do next?
I will take what I have learned into my design and illustration practice. I have already used Europeana.eu images and some of the techniques learned during the residency in other side projects. I may further develop my collage practice as a form of fine art or I may also use collage in animation, since it is another domain which I am currently exploring as part of my studies.