Małgorzata Mirga-Tas Wins Prestigious Tajsa Roma Cultural Heritage Prize 2023
The European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture (ERIAC) proudly recognizes Małgorzata Mirga-Tas as the distinguished recipient of the prestigious Tajsa Roma Cultural Heritage Prize 2023. Handpicked from an impressive array of over eighty submissions, Mirga-Tas stands as an exemplar of excellence and commitment in advancing Roma cultural heritage.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, a Polish-Roma artist celebrated for her vibrant and self-assured Roma iconography, has left an indelible mark on Roma cultural heritage. Her exceptional work challenges stereotypes and engages in a critical dialogue with historical depictions of the Roma community. Mirga-Tas’s relentless dedication to reshaping narratives and fostering cultural dialogue within and beyond the Roma community has earned her this esteemed accolade.
A defining moment in Mirga-Tas’s career was her representation of Poland at the prestigious Venice Biennale in 2022. Her vibrant and affirming artistic creations stood out, challenging conventional perceptions and engaging viewers in a profound exploration of Roma identity. Notably, her bold and thought-provoking artwork served as a critical intervention in revising perspectives and conveying historical narratives.
The Tajsa Prize, accompanied by a 10,000-euro grant, celebrates exceptional individuals at the forefront of the contemporary Roma cultural movement. This esteemed award underscores Roma pride and illuminates the extraordinary talent of Roma cultural producers across various domains of arts and culture.
ERIAC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, recognizing her exceptional achievements in advancing Roma cultural expressions and challenging societal norms.
The selection process, led by an international jury, rigorously evaluated the contributions of the five remarkable finalists. Among these finalists, Mirga-Tas stood out for her bold and transformative approach in redefining Roma cultural narratives.
ERIAC Executive Director Timea Junghaus commented, “ The Tajsa Prize honors the most outstanding Roma individual who is the leading voice of the Roma cultural movement of our age. The prize is the embodiment of Roma pride, creativity, virtuosity, and the outstanding and heart-melting talent of Roma cultural producers. It is the award from Roma for one of our own, with pristine art and indubitable integrity.”
The Tajsa Prize 2023 Ceremony took place at the esteemed Maxim Gorki Theatre in Berlin on November 30, 2023, where Małgorzata Mirga-Tas was recognized for her exceptional contributions to Roma cultural heritage. The event was a testament to the dedication and impact of this extraordinary individual.
ERIAC acts as an international creative hub to support the exchange of creative ideas across borders, cultural domains and Romani identities. ERIAC aims to be the promoter of Romani contributions to European culture and talent, success and achievement, as well as to document the historical experiences of Romani people in Europe.
TAJSA was organized in the frame of ERIACNET4EU project, financed by the European Commission and the International Cultural Outreach Project, financed by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.
Watch full ceremony, available online: https://fb.watch/oG0ZxPVL2G/
