In this episode I talk to Mike Damanti, a professional photographer from the United States who moved to Madrid five years ago. While on a quest for artistic inspiration, Mike came across Madrid’s Romani community. 

Photographing them over many years and documenting the Romani community’s lives living on the streets of Madrid, he slowly became accepted into their circle and soon developed deep friendships. Being allowed into their lives and sharing their moments of happiness along with their darkest hours, has allowed Mike to produce a touching insight into the Romani way of life through his photos. 

Mike has since become an advocate for Romani rights, and has talked about the issue at Madrid for Refugees while also exhibiting his photography which has helped give the Romani community more visibility and challenge people’s perception of who they are and how they live. 

To see Mike’s street photography of the Romani community please visit his website here. It is worth looking at the photos while listening to this podcast episode, as Mike and me refer to some of the photos during the interview. 

Want more? Check out Mike’s Instagram and Madrid Street Photography Facebook Group 

Also, if you would like to get involved with the Roma Project in Madrid or you would like a private photographic tour of Madrid please contact Mike at mcxd@hotmail.com