Vik Muniz
For those with a Netflix account and think you have seen it all, add Wasteland to your Need-to-Watch List. It's free!
Words cannot describe how amazing artist Vik Muniz.
Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 1961. At a young age, he was shot in the leg after trying to break up a fight. He received compensation for the injuries and chose to use the money to fund a trip to New York City. He ended up working there until the late 1980's. He started his career as a sculpture, and later on developed a passion towards photography.
"...Vik has used dirt, diamonds, sugar, string, chocolate syrup and garbage to create bold, witty and often deceiving images drawn from the pages of photojournalism and art history. His work has been met with both commercial success and critical acclaim, and has been exhibited worldwide. His solo show at MAM in Rio de Janeiro was second only to Picasso in attendance records; it was here that Vik first exhibited his “Pictures of Garbage Series” in Brazil."
-Waste Land Movie
The documentary Waste Land was filmed for over three years. The film follows artist, Vik Muniz, in his journey of returning back to his native country, Brazil, to visit the World's largest landfill located on the outer part of Rio de Janeiro, Jardim Gramacho. Once there, he begins photographing "catadores"- Recyclable Material Collectors. He tells each Catadores he photographs, all proceeds made from these work of art will be there's to keep. The beauty of this film is within each individuals, their story, and their view of the world. Vik Muniz not only became a part of their world, he helped them and created a film that is simply poetic and magical.
Valter: [talking about the importance of recycling] People sometimes say "But one single can?" One single can is of great importance. Because 99 is not 100, and that single one will make the difference.
Vik Muniz: I'd rather want everything and have nothing, than have everything and want nothing. Because at least when you want something your life has a meaning: it's worthwhile. From the moment you think you have everything, you have to search for meaning in other things. I spent half my life wanting everything and having nothing; and now I have everything and I don't want anything.
Valter: [talking about the importance of recycling] People sometimes say "But one single can?" One single can is of great importance. Because 99 is not 100, and that single one will make the difference.
Vik Muniz: I'd rather want everything and have nothing, than have everything and want nothing. Because at least when you want something your life has a meaning: it's worthwhile. From the moment you think you have everything, you have to search for meaning in other things. I spent half my life wanting everything and having nothing; and now I have everything and I don't want anything.
If, after reading this, you still have doubts on whether or not you wish to view this film....take a peek of the trailer:
How did you enjoy the documentary? What did you get out of it?
Does the artist's work resonate with any important cultural concerns in today's society?
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