"Waste Land"

I recently viewed the film "Waste Land", a documentary detailing Brazilian artist Vik Muniz’s work with recyclable materials. In the film, he travels to the largest landfill in the world, Jardim Gramacho in Rio de Janeiro, to create portraits of the garbage pickers there. He sets out with the purpose to change the lives of people by creating art with materials they use daily.

I could go on for hours about this documentary, but in short, I love it. But why? Was it because I was amazed by the artwork (which can be found here)? Probably. However, I most love this movie because of its message. It is easy to see that "Waste Land" could influence one to recycle, but this is not the true meaning of the film. The most important message this films persuades me to understand is that once you see the details, it is easier to comprehend and appreciate the big picture.

From an aerial view, the workers at Jardim Gramacho appear standard and low-class. Through the course of the movie, though, the viewer learns their stories. Zumbi has hopes to open a library. Tião loves to read and treasures his books. As Vik Muniz interviews the workers, their details become clear and our view of their lives shifts.

The same can be said about Muniz’s art. Initially, beautiful images of people are presented. Then the viewer leans in and sees the true materials: garbage. The viewer leans back out and has a new perspective on the picture. As Tião says, people must spend hours at Vik Muniz’s work, noticing all the details.

Just as a portrait is enhanced by its materials, people become more beautiful as we become familiar with the details and imperfections of their lives.