Michael Damanti

In Plain Sight Michael Damanti

Between 2015 and 2020, I was lucky enough to produce a remarkable set of photographs of a group of people who were at best, invisible to society and, at worst, the frequent targets of mistreatment. I met with them consistently, carefully documenting their story and gradually becoming absorbed into their lives. Together, we have been through births, deaths, arrests, fights and the day to day struggles we all endure. I had expected to document the people in Sol, but I did not expect to like them so much or to be welcomed into their family. This has been a baby step toward changing the negative perceptions of Romani people in Spain. Although, at the very least, the Romani community in Madrid has found an unlikely friend and ally. I am the lucky one, as they were easily the best thing that happened to me during my time in Spain.