Documentary Photographer Aydin Cetinbostanoglu is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this social documentary photography. From his project ‘Gypsies‘. To see Aydin’s gallery of projects click on any image.
Gypsy family busy in preparation for dinner. Gypsies living in the area speak local Kurdish language.
Batman- 2009
Bride’s mother and sister are taking memorabilia photos of the bride.
Istanbul – 2011
A drunk man is trying to dance on the street on a hot summer day. His friend is supporting him with whistles and hand movement. An audience at the background bloked her face not to see this scene.
Tekirdag – 2007
Gypsies of Turkey
Are the Gypsy people witnessing the destruction of their culture?
My project, called “Gypsies”, began with this question in 1999 and has become my passion.
With an invitation to a friends wedding, I was allowed the opportunity to witness the inside workings of the secretive Gypsy lifestyle. I soon realized I had a cultural curiosity for the Gypsy life.
I have devoted much time to studying the Gypsy culture and would like to capture not only images, but also verbal dialog as well as traditional Gypsy music to enhance the experience of the viewer.
Gypsies seem to hold on to their freedom, they know how to be content with simple things and the beauty that nature provides. Their close-knit family and community structure provides them with a sense of security.
A bride dancing under the colored fog before henna ceremony, members of the community are watching in the darkness behind.
Gypsy neighborhood in Thrace – 2007
Istanbul – 2011
Bride and groom
He has shaving foam on his face and a little money in his hand.
They are dancing under a scarf that symbolizes to stay married for a long time.
Istanbul – 2007
Istanbul -2011
Henna night of a gypsy’s wedding in the ghetto. Different but exuberant life. Bride is dancing under the henna tray; friends accompany her by singing.
Istanbul – 2011
Children participate in the family budget. With their small hands they weave straw umbrellas for the beaches, before the staring of the summer.
Izmir – 2008
Beans, rice and bread
Bride is waiting for the time of the ceremony with her father and sister.
Istanbul – 2011
Gypsy musicians harass the guests with flutes in a local festival aiming to get the tips.
Bozdogan – 2008
Gypsy neighborhood in Istanbul – 1999
The groom took the bride from her father’s house. Young girls on the street , are watching the couple pass by walking towards their new home with envy. On the other hand the groom’s sister is very happy , she carries her daughter in her arms.
Istanbul – 2011
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By Aydin Cetinbostanoglu
