JR hits the Rio favelas

These spectacular photos are the artwork of the underground artist/photographer JR who’s latest work takes place in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. It’s part of his ongoing 28 milimetres project which started back in 2004, and got him famous when it was featured on the front page of the New York Times.

I’m a big fan of his work, I rank him up there with the likes of Banksy. Be sure to take a look at his personal website. His portrait work is emotionally powerful to say the least.

More images after the jump.

link 28milimetres

link JR-Art.net

via wooster collective

Favela da Providencia was chosen to host the project for its strong historical relevance – it was the first favela of Rio de Janeiro and carries the title of the most dangerous one of all. It also has a recent history of murders of innocent people by the war between local corrupted army and drug dealers.

Through the portraits of the women, coming from different origins and generations, you reach their stories and understand their vision of life in the context of conflict. In each photo you can face a different part of the woman’s expression of life. This perspective unites hill and asphalt to give a face to the favela.

This art project is completely independent and not sponsored by any institution or brand.

The technique used is simple – the portraits become oversized prints which are pasted on the architecture with the help of the community.

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