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Captivating Images of Young Migrants’ Lives in Spain

Joshua Liu04 mins

Felipe Romero Beltrán’s Documentary on Migrant Lives in Spain

In his new book "Dialect," Felipe Romero Beltrán depicts lives of nine Moroccan men living in a Spanish immigration facility. Scroll through the gallery to see more of the images.
In his new book “Dialect,” Felipe Romero Beltrán depicts lives of nine Moroccan men living in a Spanish immigration facility. Scroll through the gallery to see more of the images.

Felipe Romero Beltrán’s work provides a profound look into the lives of nine Moroccan men who were undocumented and seeking a new life within Spain’s immigration system. His project, characterized by both documentary and performance aspects, brings to light the often-overlooked narratives of migrants.

Exploring the Migrant Experience

Beltrán’s photography captures various moments that resonate deeply with the reality faced by these individuals, from experiencing monotony to enduring hardship while waiting for residency. Consequently, many of the images reflect the boredom and uncertainty inherent in their circumstances.

Many of the photos speak to the boredom faced by the men, who were undocumented and unable to legally work in Spain.
Many of the photos speak to the boredom faced by the men, who were undocumented and unable to legally work in Spain.

Staged Re-enactments and Personal Journeys

The concept behind Beltrán’s project involves staged reenactments of significant moments from the men’s journeys to Spain. Therefore, the viewer becomes part of their storytelling, understanding the trials and moments of human connection that illustrate their lives.

Part documentary and part performance, the book features staged re-enactments of moments from the men's difficult journeys to Spain.
Part documentary and part performance, the project features staged re-enactments of moments from the men’s difficult journeys to Spain.

Everyday Life and Resilience

Beltrán captures not only the struggles but also the everyday moments of the migrants’ lives—working out, socializing, and experiencing camaraderie. These aspects illustrate their resilience and adaptability in a foreign land.

Many of the photos show the men killing time. According to Beltrán, his subjects were required to stay in Spain for three continuous years before applying for residency.
Many of the photos show the men killing time. According to Beltrán, his subjects were required to stay in Spain for three continuous years before applying for residency.

Living Conditions and Cultural Integration

Moreover, the photographs document the conditions of the government-run facility where the men lived, highlighting the peeling walls and meager food supplies. Nevertheless, the men received Spanish lessons and workshops aimed at helping them acclimate to life in Spain. Some of these initiatives were directly facilitated by Beltrán.

While living at the government-run facility, the men took Spanish lessons and joined workshops to help them adapt to life in Spain — some of which were run by Beltrán.
While living at the government-run facility, the men took Spanish lessons and joined workshops to help them adapt to life in Spain — some of which were run by Beltrán.

The Bonds of Friendship

Interestingly, despite not knowing one another prior to their arrival in Spain, the men developed close friendships through shared experiences and daily interactions, becoming a vital support system for one another.

The men did not know one another before arriving in Spain, though by "spending all day together ... they became really close friends," said Beltrán.
The men did not know one another before arriving in Spain, though by “spending all day together … they became really close friends,” said Beltrán.


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