Bogdan Oita: Public space and social power

“(…) I was with a friend on the street the other day and I wasn’t looking at people how relaxed they were and at one point he told me: yes, people are in their country, we don’t have a country and I was like: yes, it is very much about it. The spaces are clearly made for the citizens of that country and clearly the ethnics of that country, it’s clear that they are not made for minorities because you don’t find a sign of minorities if you look on the street.” (Ana*, Roma woman, 28 years old)                                                                             

Embarking on a journey fueled by the captivating interplay of power dynamics in social existence, I delve into the realms of visual anthropology and social work, drawing inspiration from the work of specialists like Lewis Hine, Pierre Bourdieu, or Sara Ahmed. In their groundbreaking works, Hine’s significant impact on social photography, Bourdieu’s intricate theory of symbolic power, and Ahmed’s explanations on experiences of racialized bodies in a space dominated by a particular culture in power converge to emphasize the very essence of human interaction.

At the core of social existence resides the pervasive force of power, where influence holds paramount significance. As social actors engaged in the intricate tapestry of social interactions, we are involved in the perpetual struggle for access to resources, the shaping of space, and the establishment of social value. It is within this context that I wield my camera as a tool for exploration, capturing moments in public spaces that serve as windows into the dynamics of power.

Through my lens, I endeavor to understand the intricacies of human behavior, showcasing how individuals use their social, cultural, and political capital to assert dominance and shape social hierarchies. This endeavor finds resonance in the vibrant theater of public life, where individuals, particularly those in vulnerable conditions, navigate the intricate landscape of power dynamics to secure their daily existence.

In presenting this evocative series of photographs taken between 2018 and 2024 in four countries, Romania, Turkey, Italy, and Sweden, I invite viewers to contemplate the influence of social power on our lives. Each image serves as a testament to the enduring impact of power dynamics on the fabric of society, offering a poignant reflection on the complexities of human interaction in the public sphere.