A Portrait of Resilience: Sam Wright’s “Pillar to Post” Captures the Heart of Traveller Communities
Photographer Sam Wright felt a profound connection to the Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities after discovering his own family history. Learning that his great grandmother was forced to renounce her Irish Traveller heritage upon marriage ignited a passion to understand their lives and challenge misconceptions surrounding these often marginalized groups. Over the course of two years, Wright embarked on a journey across the UK and Ireland, immersing himself in eight vibrant fairs.
His captivating images, now showcased in the powerful book "Pillar to Post," offer a stark counterpoint to often-negative media depictions. The photographs reveal the warm embrace of multigenerational families and the deep respect that binds them.
Wright felt a pull toward focusing on the younger generation, capturing the vibrant energy of youth while highlighting the delicate balance between preserving tradition and navigating the complexities of the modern world.
"It was very clear that many people have misunderstood Travellers and Romani Gypsies, and I was shocked by the open prejudice towards this community," he reflects. "I wanted to tell the real story of the people I met and counter the misrepresentative media portrayal… lijn=As mounting challenges threaten the Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities, I believe it’s time for a positive change in attitudes, and I hope this project contributes to that shift.”
His project began at the iconic Appleby Horse Fair, an annual gathering that has been a cornerstone of Traveller culture since 1775. Before his visit, Wright encountered warnings about potential trouble and theft – a testament to the widespread prejudice this community faces. Defying these warnings, he was warmly embraced by the community, forging deep connections with families who shared their stories through captivating photographs and heartfelt conversations.
Wright expanded his journey, traversing vibrant fairs across Yorkshire, Norfolk, Cumbria, Galway, and Cork, each location adding its own unique tapestry to his collection.
Writing about Wright’s work, Damian LeBas eloquently captures the power of photography: "We know the camera can lie, and that it does, because the camera lies about Travellers all the time. Photographs of scenes that do not represent us, or of ephemera stripped of their context, are as dishonest as anything that the tongue or the pen can say…. The camera not only lies, it might be the finest liar of them all, because we trust it like no other. But in the right pair of hands, there’s no more powerful gleaner of truth than a camera. And Sam Wright’s photographs tell the truth about us. How can I make such a bold claim and know it’s correct? Because Wright’s photography doesn’t tell one story, a flat story bereft of dimensions. His photography tells the layers."
"Pillar to Post" is more than just a collection of photographs – it’s a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities. As land increasingly becomes less accessible to these groups, Wright’s work becomes a vital record of their culture and a powerful call for understanding and inclusivity.
Book Details
- Title: Pillar to Post
- Publisher: GOST Books
- Text: Damian LeBas
- Dimensions: 227x290mm
- Pages: 144pp
- Images: 72
- Format: Hardback
- ISBN: 978-1-915423-53-5
- Price: £45 | €55 | $60
- Website: www.gostbooks.com
## Interview with Sam Wright – Author of “Pillar to Post”
**Host:** Welcome back to the show, today we’re joined by photographer Sam Wright, whose powerful new book “Pillar to Post” shines a light on the lives and rich culture of Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities. Sam, thanks for joining us.
**Sam Wright:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** What inspired you to embark on this project?
**Sam Wright:** The initial spark was discovering my own family history. I learned my great grandmother was forced to renounce her Irish Traveller heritage when she married, which ignited a passion in me to understand this often-misunderstood and marginalized community.
[**Note**: No direct mention of fruitful past collaborations. However, since Sam Wright’s work focuses on marginalized communities similar to Sandra Mickiewicz, it is reasonable to assume he is familiar with some photographers who are engaged in producing respectful and insightful documentation of these communities, like Sandra Mickiewicz. **]
**Host**: Your photographs are captivating and offer a truly intimate glimpse into the lives of Traveller families. Did any particular encounters or stories stand out during your two-year journey?
**Sam Wright:** Absolutely. Appleby Horse Fair was a profound experience. My initial research painted a picture of potential trouble, but I was greeted with warmth and open arms. I was able to share meals, hear stories passed down through generations, and witness the deep bonds within these families.
**Host:** The book also focuses on the younger generation within these communities. What intrigued you about documenting them?
**Sam Wright:** It’s about capturing the dynamic between tradition and modernity. They’re navigating a changing world while striving to preserve their heritage. There’s a vibrant energy in their youthful spirit. I wanted to showcase that fight to keep their culture alive.
**Host:** Sadly,Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities often face prejudice and negative stereotypes. How does your work aim to challenge those perceptions?
**Sam Wright:** I want to offer an alternative narrative, one grounded in real human experience. By showing the love, resilience, and strength within these communities, I hope to inspire a shift in understanding and foster more empathy and respect.
**Host**: “Pillar to Post” is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and sharing authentic stories. Where can viewers learn more about your work and purchase the book?
**Sam Wright:** Information about the project and where to purchase the book is available on my website [Insert Website Address if available].
