Inspired by events in his native country of France, JR armed himself with a 28 millimeter camera and began taking photos of people from one "side of the tracks," blowing them up into gigantic posters and then splattering them around the "other side." His 28 millimeter project, as it's titled, was an ironic way to help change the way people are stereotypically viewed by going over the top with that very stereotype.
He carried his art to the Middle East, where he photographed Palestinian and Israeli folks of similar professions and then pasted their big, old faces right next to each other. In two countries that couldn't be more divided, he shined on a light on their similarities. Face to Face, in such a simple way told a huge story of humanity. The funniest part was that people of these countries could not distinguish who was Palestinian and who Israeli. Begging the question: "If you are so different, how come you can't tell who is who?
In the videos below, he describes the stories behind these two projects and several others. Each one is equally impressive. It's amazing how with just a camera, some glue and paper, he can construct something so powerful and transforming. When modern art often seems to be inspired only by good supply of hallucinogenics and creative spin, JR's concepts come from a place of real intent. So take a look and be prepared to say, "Wow, this guy is way more than just an artist."
He is also the well-deserved recipient of 2011 TED Prize and has since started the inside-out project, insideoutproject.net.
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