What validates migration in the 21st century? Initially from Bulgaria, Bilyana Simova objects to this burning question by tapping into her personal story. Through an inclusive combination of street imagery, and textual retrospections, “I WAS HERE” presents a deeper insight into the intricacies of moving countries.

 

The free-spirited philosophy of the beat generation had a significant impact on Bilyana when she was at school. In her mid-30s, however, she had far more complex reasons for “going abroad.” A couple of years later, Brexit radically changed the political climate in the UK. Contrary to her formal filmmaking background, Bilyana started documenting her impressions, using a mobile device. During that period of transition, it provided her with a ground for experimenting that eventually took her on a new career venture.

 

What are the decisive moments which pave our way forwards? Bilyana is also curious about the space travel aspect of photography. It is a contemporary myth that life always moves on. Our minds never cease to wander between different timelines. Previous events influence current situations. In her last year at the University of Cumbria, Bilyana looks at the ambivalent connections to the past. For the first time in six years, she revisits the bohemian Soho village in London, searching for a long-gone burger restaurant at Frith Street, where she once worked as a waitress.

 

Unlike the change in geographical location, the psychological displacement following moving is obscured. Bilyana chooses to craft her series as postcards and reference the traditional trip culture. Playing with the semantics, she illustrates the contrast of the social experiences of migrants. Migration is a leap of faith, and so, can we fly on a dream? Over time, we might realize that loss comes with the birth of a new identity. The critical decision always is should life circumstances define who we are