Celebration, remembrance and cultural exploration are the prevailing themes of NYC’s second annual Roma Film Festival. The socially conscious fest — also known as the Gypsy Human Rights Film Festival — is set to screen over 25 films from all over the world that explore the conditions, lives and history of the Roma peoples.

One such film, “Searching for the 4th Nail“, engrosses the viewer by seeking to answer the question of what it means to be a gypsy. The film details the journey of filmmaker George Eli as he treks across America in search of the meaning of his people’s traditions so that he may teach his sons what it means to be a gypsy.

The Roma Film Festival runs from July 8th to the 15th. For more on location and screenings, check them out here.

Take your average front man during a band’s period of creative hiatus. Damon Albarn is not that guy. Instead of focusing the pursuits of his off-time on reality variety shows or eco-friendly clothing labels, this lead vocalist of the legendary Britpop band Blur has worked as main man behind the Gorillaz, and the Danger Mouse collaboration The Good, the Bad, and the Queen.

In 2002, he co-founded the Honest Jons Record label which Entertainment Weekly refers to as “the hippest world-music label going.” Their Lincoln Center musical revue promises a swift education in contemporary black music with Cadi Staton performing (remember “Young Hearts Run Free”?) alongside Simone White, Tony Allen, the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, and many others.

More info here.

Saturday, July 12th
8PM
Avery Fisher Hall
Part of the Lincoln Center Festival 2008

The International Center of Photography’s most recent exhibit is bringing Japan back to New York City. Heavy Light, featuring photography and film from 13 of Japan’s most talented artists show that there is more rising from this island nation than just the sun. From Hiroh Kikai’s stunning black and white street portraits to Miwa Yanagi’s eerie theatrical re-creation of childhood fairy tales, the exhibition represents a link between traditional culture and emerging elements of Japanese society.

Asako Narahashi’s series Half Awake and Half Asleep in the Water blends the turbulence of nature with the futuristic urban architecture that lines Japan’s coast. Asako’s images evoke an isolation that could only result from floating just out of reach from the safety of land.

Masayuki Yoshinaga’s video installation showcases the modern rituals of Japan’s infamous motorcycle gangs. His light screen display of Lolita Gothic fashion is also a must-see. Photographed in some of the most famous trend-setting districts in Japan, such as Harajuku and Shibuya, Yoshinaga’s collection explores bizarre and daring Japanese street style.

Don’t miss out on this illuminating display, running now until September 7th. More info here.