India, as opposed to India

This photographic diary, is the result of a journey in India.

The images I had seen before arriving, where that of an exotic and a totally, culturally, different place.

I found myself drawn to this place, as I always am to things that seem different; probably in order to find what binds us together. No matter how new everything seems here, somehow the thought that what I see rather than differentiating me, brings me closer to this place, makes me feel peaceful.

I am sitting in the train, the women’s department, when a group of schoolgirls comes in. They are all about 10 years old, smiling, with their hair done up in red ribbons. The train moves slowly, and they start singing. My mind travels…

I am there, I am here, a dream is the same everywhere.

We have so much to share.

Mumbai January 2001

Solo exhibition, Ileana Tounta gallery, Athens – 2006

India, as opposed to India, Cube editions – 2006