Polish-born Maciej Dakowicz’s photographs of Cardiff attracted controversy for the drunkenness they show. But they also capture the carmaradarie, the silliness and the sheer joy of a crazy night out. The photos, which were taken from 2006 to 2011, were published by Thames and Hudson in Cardiff after Dark in October 2012.
‘Everything takes place in public – from drinking, fighting, kissing to crying and sleeping. Supermen chat up Playboy Bunnies, somebody lies on the pavement taking a nap, the hungry ones finish their portions of chips and the policemen stop another argument or fight. Nobody seems to worry about tomorrow, what matters is here and now. Then another week at work or university, until the next weekend.’
In a BBC interview Maciej, who has lived in Wales for years, said ‘In Poland, they just drink and go home. They don’t dress up in Superman clothes. It’s much quieter – it’s not as colourful as here.
‘I like the British culture. In Cardiff at least, it’s more peaceful – I’m not sure about other cities in the UK. In Cardiff, there’s very rarely fighting on the streets.’
At least chip papers have been placed near the bin.
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