Satmar
Resistance to Americanization is such that although there is no physical wall to isolate them, a strong “sociological wall” separates this group from activities that might encroach on its cultural stability. -Solomon Poll
My project explores the Satmar community of Williamsburg, New York, one of the most ultra-orthodox movements of Hasidic Judaism today. Since their arrival from Europe after World War II, the Hasidim have transformed their urban neighborhoods into veritable islands in the city. Separating themselves through daily activities, including the clothes they wear, the food they eat, the places they gather, and even the language they speak; they have created a well functioning community with social controls and little or no deviation.
The images express how I experience the social isolation that is at the core of this insular world.
