Mixing of Times
Maria Bratan, Moldova
Maria Bratan was born and lives in Ceadir-Lunga, a city in southern Moldova. It was while she was on maternity leave that she became interested in photography. Since then, she has continued to pursue this interest. She has continued to develop and enjoy working in the world of photography for the past 17 years.
These photos capture girls from Gagauzia, living in southern Moldova – keepers of living history woven from traditions and modernity. Each of them is not just a portrait, but a window into the rich world of Gagauzian culture, passed down from generation to generation. The blurred silhouettes in authentic attire create a sense of time travel, as if erasing the line between past and present. These images are not just a tribute to the past, but also evidence of the resilience and beauty of Gagauzian traditions. The bright, rich colors of national costumes, from deep burgundy to sunny yellows, symbolize the energy and vitality of the people. The dynamics of the frame, whether it is movement in a dance or a pensive gaze into the distance, add depth and emotionality to the narrative, inviting the viewer not just to look, but also to feel the connection of times, to feel the spirit of Gagauzia. These photos are not just images, they are stories captured in color and movement, inviting us on an amazing journey through the waves of time and culture.