Echoes of Romania

Hello there! My name is Valeria, and I am a third-year Arts student based in Groningen. I am someone who is fascinated by the cultural and artistic expressions of my homeland, Romania. That's why I've decided to start this blog, where I can explore and share my thoughts on different media, arts, and cultural aspects of Romania. Join me on this journey as we dive into the rich tapestry of Romanian heritage and discover the beauty and complexity of this fascinating country. Welcome!

[romanianrootsblog]

Close to home

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=255AlsBq7ng

As someone who grew up in a neighbourhood next to Ferentari and has visited the area multiple times during my childhood, watching "Soldiers. Story from Ferentari" was an emotional experience. The film's depiction of Ferentari is raw and authentic, shedding light on the complexities of poverty and the humanity that exists within it. The movie's unique brand of realism made me feel like I was watching a documentary rather than a narrative film.

Ivana Mladenovi's movie takes on controversial subjects such as poverty, homosexuality, and the treatment of Romani minorities in Bucharest, but it never feels preachy or heavy-handed.  Instead, it shows these issues through a distinctly human lens. The characters' queer relationship is particularly powerful, as it shows two individuals finding love and connection in a place where they are often overlooked or ignored. (Adrian Schiop, who portrays a fictionalized version of himself, moves to Ferentari to study local music and establishes a romantic relationship with Alberto, a Romani ex-convict.) Romania is known as a country where, unfortunately, homosexuality still has a long way until it becomes widely accepted and I find it interesting how this film doesn’t really focus much on this aspect. While there are issues that the couple do have because of homophobia, the way their relationship is constructed doesn’t really put any centre on the fact that there are two men in this relationship. We only have two people falling in love. (I expected, in the beginning, to see more issues surrounding this couple, because of the conservative society the characters live in, but I like it better without this aspect; it gives the viewer a chance to look at the relationship in more detail and understand how love works between them, leaving behind what society thinks.)

I appreciated how the film portrays Ferentari in all its ugliness and beauty. While the neighbourhood is often portrayed in the media as a bad place with bad people, “Soldiers” shows that this is far from the truth. The people of Ferentari are not to be looked down upon, and the film's message is that everyone deserves respect and dignity, regardless of their circumstances. I cannot agree more with this, as both my neighbourhood and Ferentari have been known to hold bad opinions towards their simple existence. I like how the movie does not hide the ugly parts but doesn’t pretend that all there is to Ferentari are stereotypes: there is kindness, humanity, love, sadness, problems, anger, and unfairness, just like any other place out there. 

As someone who knows people who haven't had the easiest lives and who has seen the stereotypes and ignorance surrounding Ferentari firsthand, “Soldiers” left a lasting impression on me. It's a film that challenges viewers to confront their own biases and preconceptions and to see the humanity that exists within us all. If you're looking for a powerful, thought-provoking film that will leave you thinking, and also give you a glimpse into one of Bucharest’s neighbourhoods, “Soldiers” is a must-see.

[romanianrootsblog]

The Endless Column

"To see far is one thing, going there is another." - Constantin Brâncuși

With the words of Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncuși in mind, I want to invite everyone on a journey to explore one of his most celebrated works, “The Endless Column”. This towering sculpture, located in Romania, is a true masterpiece that embodies Brâncuși’s artistic vision and leaves a lasting impression on all who behold it. Unfortunately, I still haven't had the honour of seeing such a symbol in person.

As a Romanian Arts student living abroad, it’s easy to get caught up in the culture and traditions of a new country, and it’s become important to me not to forget my roots and where I come from. Too late for my liking, but I have come to appreciate the importance of staying connected to my birthplace and exploring the history and beauty of Romania. Constantin Brâncuși is one of Romania's most famous and celebrated artists, and his "Endless Column" (which you can find in Târgu-Jiu city) is a remarkable representation of his artistic talent.

The monument holds a special place in the hearts of many Romanians, including myself, as it was commissioned by the National League of Gorj Women to honour the brave soldiers who defended Târgu-Jiu from the forces of the Central Powers in 1916. Even though Brâncuși was living in Paris at the time, he eagerly accepted the opportunity to create a large commemorative sculpture in his homeland, refusing any payment for his work. The passion and dedication he poured into this masterpiece are evident in every detail.

“The Endless Column” is a breathtaking sculpture that stands at 29.3 meters tall, constructed out of 17 rhomboidal modules of cast iron. It symbolizes the infinite flow of time and the continuity of life. The design is deceptively simple yet stunningly beautiful, reflecting the harmony and balance that Brâncuși sought to achieve in his work. The use of cast iron as a material for the sculpture is significant as well. The artist was known for his preference for simple materials and techniques that allowed the essence of the subject to shine through. By using cast iron, he was able to create a striking contrast between the rawness of the material and the elegant form of the sculpture. Another aspect that makes The Infinity Column a true masterpiece is the way it interacts with its surroundings. Despite its size, the sculpture appears to be in perfect harmony with the landscape, as if it was always meant to be there. Brâncuși’s use of negative space and his understanding of the relationship between form and space are on full display here.

“The Endless Column” is not only a symbol of Romania's artistic legacy but also a testament to the country's resilience and ability to endure through the centuries. The sculpture's message of continuity and perseverance is particularly relevant to me as a Romanian, and it reminds me of the importance of staying connected to my roots. Although I have yet to see the Infinity Column in person, I admire it deeply and believe that its message is universal. The sculpture teaches us that life is a journey, and although we may not always see the end, we must keep moving forward.

[romanianrootsblog]

Underground folklore

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xu1tkect4I 

Moving abroad after finishing high school might be a dream for many, and I was fortunate enough to be able to do just that. While trying to learn about the Dutch culture, I realised something; that I don’t know much about my own identity from Romania. Soon enough, I found myself terribly missing home while actively choosing to leave and study in a new country. Oh, the irony! My solution was simple: I started listening to more Romanian music than I used to back in Romania. 

The concept of underground folklore must be new to many people reading this. It was to me. Perhaps I don’t dabble with the type of people who listen to this genre often enough to feel in any way influenced by them, yet I don’t believe it gets the spotlight it deserves. I think Underground folklore, through its multiple confined cultural elements, has the capability to create spaces that foster a local sense of belonging, just like it did for me. I want to introduce here this amazing Romanian band, Subcarpați (the literal translation would be “Under the Carphatians”). And more specifically, their song “Balada Românului” (“The Ballad of the Romanian”). This piece of music has been a favourite of mine ever since it was released on the band's album "Culese din cartier" and I've listened to it countless times since then (“Gathered/Picked up from the neighbourhood” - the neighbourhood plays an important role for inspiration in Romanian music, especially hip-hop).

Whenever I listen to the song, I'm transported to the chaotic streets of Bucharest. The lyrics perfectly capture the growing frustration and ignorance that many Romanians feel towards the failed system -and by default their own country- while also trying to celebrate the strength and resilience of the Romanian people. I find myself nodding along to the beat every time, feeling a sense of pride in my heritage and a determination to overcome the future challenges that face my homeland.

Here is a rough translation of some lyrics that I am fond of, because of the artist's use of music as a shield, representing the power and comfort that it can bring to individuals. The lyrics also address the struggles of identity crisis and the importance of embracing one's cultural roots (such as folklore), which can resonate with many listeners who may be going through similar experiences:

“I use music as a shield

That I gained over long years, not just in a night

And I'm speaking especially to the young people

It's an identity crisis, a national phenomenon

(...)

When I listen to or sing this ballad

I know it's like a spark in ‘garbage’

That will ignite the faith that Romania departs from us 

(In the sense that Romania is in each one of us and its existence has to start with us)

(...)

I just want you to learn from mistakes, but wait

The world will not get my message

I have a national spirit, but I'm not a fanatic

Folklore is oxygen for an asthmatic country.“

What I love most about “Balada Românului” is the way it blends traditional Romanian music with modern electronic and hip-hop elements. The use of the cimbalom, whistle and other traditional instruments give the song a sense of authenticity and a connection to our rich cultural heritage. Just like my favourite lyric in this song tries to hint at, "Folklore is oxygen for an asthmatic country", there needs to be more appreciation for traditional folk music. At the same time, the vibrant electronic beats and the dynamic hip-hop rhythms add a contemporary edge that makes the song feel fresh and innovative. You can certainly feel that this song is a masterpiece of fusion.

One of the defining features of underground folklore that I feel I must mention is its connection to place and community. The ability of Subcarpați to draw inspiration from the streets, neighbourhoods, and cultural traditions of the Romanians is shown in the way their music often reflects the social and political issues that are important to their communities. And in my case, “Balada Românului” and their discography brought me closer to home, closer to a place where I can relate to others and be understood in my experiences growing up. I don’t categorise myself as a nationalist, nor do I agree with a lot of current opinions circulating around the media regarding this movement, but I do love my country and its history, people and nature. And underground folklore, with Subcarpați leading this movement in Romania, acts as a constant reminder for me to never forget what my origins are.