Lanzon at Chavín de HuántarThe importance of this Pre-Columbus artifact cannot be exaggerated as it was found in the Old Temple in the Highlands of Peru. The site itself was important for trade and rituals. In particular, the stone is carved with ritual symbols of birds, snakes, and jaguars that may be found in Mesoamerican cultures. The first glance at the stone reveals the posture of a person with jaguar mouth, raptor talons, and snake hair. Further observation of the stone allows discovering another figure placed upside down.

Dated 1000BC and carved in stone, the artifact portrays the symbols of life and power. The figure is 8′ high, which allows the modern viewer to see all the shapes in detail, while the ancient people used this stone to perform rituals.

Vik Muniz’s Pictures of Garbage
Vik Munitz is the Brazilian representative of modern art. In his works, the author contrasts the social inconsistencies that South America faces. His art speaks to the public on politics and economics being so painful for Latin Americans. The Wasteland (2010) is his documentary that tells the story of the biggest landfill in the world, Jardim Gramacho in Brazil. Unlike the art that requires much space and distance for better observation, the audience is also welcome to have a close look at the pieces that made up enormous artworks in Munitz’s “Pictures of Garbage.”

The artworks were made from the trash bought by artist from people who made their living and survival from picking and selling trash from this enormous landfill. As well as the piece of art is enormous, the symbolic meaning lies in the huge size of the landfill and great contrast of being the leader in the export of coffee, chocolate, and sugar while being below the poverty line.