Gypsy Roma Traveller Leeds
The permanent site of the Gypsy Roma Traveller Communities
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O Baro Dive competition winners and highly commended entries
International Competition
Many of the entries were illustrated
Open Age Group
1st: Donegal Travellers Project , Ballyshannon, Donegal
The stories of this painting
For me start at Appleby Fair
All the things we have in common with the Roma are there
The stalls go on for miles
The children and their smiles
And all the pony drives
The men and the boys
Have a twinkle in their eyes
The ladies look so fine and fair
Dancing to their fancy
The music is so loud and clear all around Appleby fair
The Barrel top wagons coloured bright and clear
Give me memories of being back there
The signs of love and peace are floating in the air
The religious beliefs are always there
In the evening we kneel to prayer
There are many stories to be told
Many new and many old
I could look at this picture all day long
And write a story or a song
‘Lovely description fluently portrayed in verse.’ Jess
2nd: Mrs Jill Hollingsworth, Bournemouth
When I saw this poster I was very impressed by the colourful images showing the ways of the Roma Traveller. Each one captures the passion these people have for retaining their culture. The way it comes alive by bringing the family and friends together in their celebrations. It seems music and dancing play a large part in expressing their traditions. The captivating centre image of the husband, wife and child caught my eye. How very proud they look, sitting up on their wagon. Their expressions sum up this poster. We are what we are.
‘Beautiful, moving and with an eye for truth’ Jess
3rd: Elona, Myzafer, Albania
I think this picture describes life of Roman people, their free spirit. Happiness in all the moment too if they are poor. The importance of family and the pastor that blessing their life.
‘Free spirit, happiness shining through poverty and plenty.’ Jess
Highly commended:
- Nicki, Feltham, Middlesex
The eye is first drawn to the central, stunning ornate Gypsy Vardo and the smiling faces of a family, happy to be on the road in togetherness. It is so easy to get lost looking around the picture. To melt into one of the many different scenes or events depicted. Community cohesion, and the importance of faith and religion spring out. The gentle eyes of the horses give comfort and warm feelings. Travellers frozen in time and space. A snap shot of talented, happy people. So many tales to be told, so many woes, hopefully of old.
Award Ceremony
Every winner has received an invitation to the Awards Ceremony and we hope that they can attend with parents/carers and a representative from their school.
Those who cannot attend will receive their certificates and prizes by post.
The Winners and Highly Commended Entries
All entrants fondly depict community spirit. The most important part of being a Gypsy, Roma Traveller. Jess Smith
Click on a link below to see the winners and read their entries.