Vik Muñiz: Reflex: A Vik Muñiz Primer

by Lesley Martin (Editor), Lesley Martin (Editor)

Art objects are inanimate sad bits of matter hanging in the dark when no one is looking. The artist only does half of the work; the viewer has to come up with the rest, and it is by empowering the viewer that the miracle of art gains its force.
--Vik Muniz
An American artist of Brazilian origin, Vik Muniz stands out as one of the most articulate and innovative artists of his generation, equally at home working with images of chocolate sauce, spaghetti marinara, or the detritus of hole punchers. In doing so, he has carved out a unique niche within contemporary photography: one of trickster and philosopher as well as the creator of compelling, delightful images.
Reflex: A Vik Muniz Primer is a privileged, guided tour of the contents of Muniz's pyrotechnic imagination, walking us through each of his major series. From Equivalents, his fluffy, sculpted cotton "clouds," to his latest color work, Magazines, Muniz accompanies each series with in-depth writing that tickles our minds with amusing anecdotes detailing his inspiration for each; fascinates by revealing his methodology and working process; and enlightens by unveiling the thinking and historical influences behind each image.

Genres: Art, Photography

204 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[George Merryman]

This famous artist' work "Pictures of Garbage" lends itself perfectly to Kelly Gallagher's strategy for teaching students to ask the right questions. I will have students use Gallagher's three column graphic organizer while looking at the the Muniz collection. Once the students realize what is in the background of the pictures I will have them discuss possible reasons for these pictures. I will instruct the students to assume the role of a museum tour guide write a paragraph describing one of the pictures and the reasoning behind it.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Muniz has always been one of my favorite artists, but this book is not a typical artist book, with more pictures than words. It is essentially his memoir and advice. I am amazed that someone who began with a learning disability in Brazil could eventually write this amazing book. If you love contemporary art, need to be inspired, or teach others - this book is a must have.

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vik Muniz is a genius! Some people may think this book is pretentious, but Vik Muniz NEEDED to explain the backgrounds of his projects. Every single one of them is amazing. I just wish I could see his work in a museum! But this book is the best thing after that.

[Nicolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really enjoy his art and the explanations behind it. and of course i love books with pictures. :)

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vik gives an articulate and inspiring insight behind the never ending experimental and imaginative development of his works of art.

[Erdem Tasdelen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to dip you in chocolate sauce and eat you, Vik Muniz.