Learning from

the Tropics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learning from

the Tropics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learning from the Tropics

Poster_Learning from the tropics

Summary

In the summer of 2021, Iris C. M. Frank, an Austrian artist with an insatiable curiosity for the natural world, embarked on a transformative journey to the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. Her mission? To create a performative documentary that would not only capture the breathtaking beauty of the tropical paradise but also delve deep into the heart of environmental restoration. This captivating film, "Learning from the Tropics," was produced in 2023 and takes us on an immersive journey into the heart of Costa Rica's ecological wonderland.

Iris Frank's adventure led her to the remote village of La Gamba, nestled in the Puntarenas region of Costa Rica. It was here that she discovered Refugio Tinti, a haven of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Her decision to join forces with the community of Refugio Tinti was driven by her desire to understand and document the various methods employed by the locals to restore and rejuvenate the environment.

At the heart of "Learning from the Tropics" is the group of dedicated workers who welcomed Iris into their daily lives. Esteban, Max, and Mauricio, the unsung heroes of the film, are passionate practitioners of permaculture – an approach to agriculture that emphasizes sustainability, ecosystem restoration, and holistic living. Iris C. M. Frank's lens becomes an instrument of enlightenment as she captures the essence of their work. Through her meticulous cinematography, she allows us to witness a symphony of environmental practices, each more awe-inspiring than the last. The film paints a vivid picture of the sustainable techniques employed by these dedicated individuals. We watch in wonder as they cultivate the vibrant Mexican Sunflower, a plant celebrated for its ability to detoxify the soil and support local biodiversity. Iris's camera becomes our window into the process of Biochar creation, a revolutionary method for enriching the earth while sequestering carbon. One of the most captivating moments in the film is the hot compost-making process. As Iris documents the meticulous layering of organic materials, the compost pile becomes a living metaphor for the cyclical nature of life and death, growth and decay. Through the eyes of Esteban, Max, and Mauricio, we see that waste can be transformed into a valuable resource, and decay can give birth to new life.

As Iris C. M. Frank immerses herself deeper into the world of Refugio Tinti, she becomes not only a filmmaker but a participant in this grand experiment of sustainable living. Her artistic lens captures moments of community, laughter, and shared wisdom as she forges profound connections with the villagers who have become her friends and mentors. "Learning from the Tropics" is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the resilience of nature. It showcases the harmonious coexistence between humanity and the environment, where each action is a step towards restoration and rejuvenation.

Through Iris Frank's lens, we are reminded that our planet's salvation lies in our willingness to learn from the tropics, embrace sustainable practices, and forge a deeper connection with the world that sustains us. The film challenges us to become active participants in the grand symphony of ecological restoration, echoing the wisdom of the tropical rainforests: to thrive, we must learn to live in harmony with the Earth

Hey, I am Iris, and I am an artist with a background in Architecture and Design. 
You can find my entire Portfolio on Behance.