The prestigious Biennial Tajsa Roma Cultural Heritage Prize 2023 has been awarded to the renowned Polish artist Małgorzata Mirga-Tas by the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture (ERIAC). The award ceremony took place in Berlin last week, and in this feature, we look at her outstanding contribution to Roma cultural heritage.
Małgorzata Mirga-Tas, a Polish-Roma artist celebrated for her vibrant and self-assured Roma iconography, won the prize against worthy finalists, including award-winning Budapest-based actors Franciska Farkas and Kristóf Horváth, French visual artist Gabi Jimenez, talented Swedish actor and singer Lindy Larsson, and Slovakian visual artist Emília Rigová, aka Bári Raklóri.
Mirga-Tas, who won the award, 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.
Accepting the award, Mirga-Tas said, “I want to express immense gratitude to those who nominated myself and my fellow finalists. This acknowledgement signifies their belief in our work and our shared mission to promote Roma heritage across Europe. There is still a lot to do and a lot to tell.”
ERIAC Executive Director Timea Junghaus said, “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 to redefining Roma cultural narratives.
The Tajsa Prize honours 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 honours 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, 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.
About the Prize
Each year, the endowment of the Tajsa Prize is solely sponsored by the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture associate membership to promote the pedagogy of Roma contribution and self-determination. In 2023, the Tajsa Prize came with an endowment of 10,000 euros.
The selection process is meticulously evaluated by a five-person panel, including an ERIAC Board member, three Barvalipe Academy members, and the ERIAC Executive Director.
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