Uncertain Times

This powerful series follows a group of young men who have recently crossed the maritime border from Morocco into Spain. After their perilous journey across the Strait of Gibraltar, they are settled in Seville while their legal status is being determined. For three years – the time it takes for a citizenship approval – Beltrán accompanied the group, watching boys grow into men against the backdrop of an uncertain future. His protagonists are in a state of limbo: estranged from the familiarity of their own country, and outsiders in a society they cannot take part in. Even if they manage to procure citizenship, they will always be seen as ‘other’ in their adopted home. 

Dialect comprises a skilful combination of documentary photography and elements of performance art. In addition to Beltrán’s striking, almost cinematic photographs, the exhibition features a three-channel video recording in which the protagonists – who are still learning the new language – read out excerpts of the Spanish immigration law. Beltrán’s vision and perspective are informed by his own background as a Colombian migrant now living in Spain. 

The exhibition is complemented by a book of the same title, released by Loose Joints Publishing.