We live in a world where we consume more than we truly need.  Of course, with this over consumption comes a fair amount of waste.  In response to environmental concerns, recycling of waste has allowed inorganic and non-biodegradable items to be reprocessed into something functional, wearable or, in this case, beautiful. 

Lucy Walker’s Waste Land introduced me to the work of Brazilian artist Vik Muniz as he traveled to Jardim Gramacho, one of the world’s largest landfills, to transform garbage into something worthy of museum walls.  Equally beautiful was the transformation of the garbage pickers who gained a renewed self-worth and ability from the artistic process of creating. Check out the doc. on Netflix or samples of Muniz’s work below:

I first found interest in the subject of urban decay while watching a program on urban exploration.  Although I have no interest in delving about in abandoned buildings, I do find the buildings themselves interesting and abstractly beautiful while seemingly suspended in time…

Lowes Palace Theatre – New York

United Artist Theatre – Detroit

Adams Theatre – Detroit

Michigan Theatre Lobby

TXU Factory – Fort Worth

Vanity Ballroom – Detroit

Baker Hotel – Mineral Wells, TX