Street Safari — Humans in the Wild

From The Human Catalog — An Encyclopedia of Human Breeds

“Surely one zoo in the world should have the courage to draw the ultimate conclusion about our ancestry? A cage with Homo Sapiens in all its varying forms, perhaps then we would understand ourselves better. The question of course is whether the other animals would approve of it.”
― Cees Nooteboom

It’s important for me to capture these subjects in their natural context, so many of my images from these expeditions are passing glimpses into their movements. And likewise, many of my descriptions of their breeds come from previous observations and interactions, and is purely conjecture. — Koudis

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“The Goddesses” — There’s just so much going on in this capture, I need to leave most of the interpretation up to you. Eye-lines, refections, and both subtle and blatant messages are everywhere, imparting clues about this culture that you’d probably rather not hear.

“Survival of the Fattest” — Dark forces, lurking in the shadows circle a pack of Touristus midwestus while feeding. Many of the subjects I observe display this ironic behavior, over-nourishing to dangerous levels — becoming easy prey. ⁣

“The Lures” — I’m not sure whether the fashion here is vacational or vocational. Further study is needed. I’ll return to the Hollywood Veldt soon. Regardless of which, this plumage is obviously designed to attract. ⁣

The Crossing — Fearing that any one of their herd could be dispatched at any moment, they wait safely on the bank, awaiting the signal to cross.

“The Hidden and the Hunted” — There are a million breeds in the naked city. Some walk briskly out in the open, just anxious to get to their next safe-spot. Others move slowly in the shadows, seeking prey with conviction. They all walk past shuttered spaces and over fallen stars — reminders that it all can vanish in a flash.⁣

“King of the Jungle” — While in the wild, I came upon this most curious artifact of Homo sapiens’ society. This global species seems to change its leaders so quickly that the thrones are often empty. Note the quick checkout scanner, the hourglass and the trash can in the background, all for the ease of a prompt overthrow. ⁣

“The Protectors” — Cognizant to the faintest of sounds, Avus defensor on the left senses danger upriver, and prepares to take decisive action to protect his charge, Infantum californianus. The passing Park Warden (Circumitor gignentia) on the right, appears to be distracted, but is far from it. In fact, his device instantly connects him to all things menacing.

I’ve observed much protective behavior in my expeditions, which is both fortunate that it exists, yet sad that it’s needed.

“Worker Bea” — Her tireless quest for provisions brings her through areas she would rather not transverse — yet she does this mission daily. She keeps her eyes ahead and her mind focused on her lists. A single Bea can carry half her weight in rations, but her love for her family keeps her going. And going.

This breed, Americanus Touristus Famosus, finds itself on a pilgrimage to Hollywood, its holy mecca. They come here to see the remnants of the shapers of their culture. Here they are shown riding atop a moving example of the most sacred of them all. They have many gods—their idols, their heroes. And they have just as many anthems to worship them with:

Baby, you can drive my car
Yes, I’m gonna be a star
Baby, you can drive my car,
And maybe I’ll love you

“Studentis universitatis — Subfamily blender” This focused individual didn’t even notice me in my vantage point, she passed me so quickly. Notice that she proudly displays her tech but at the same time chooses apparel designed to blend in.

The Revolt — I’ve noticed elevated tension and fear among the species. They seem to know they are in danger of extinction. Planet-wide, they are acting in protest, divided into Red, Blue, Green, In or Out — it’s hard to keep track. But it’s increasingly evident to this observer that they will survive.

Lost in the Wild — Feeling distanced from the herd, this subject clutches his communication device and waits for a reassuring sign.

The Mimic — I found this phenomenon to be absolutely fascinating. The Mimic pretends to be something that’s attractive to others. It attracts the young at first, which are then followed by their protectors, who seem to know better, yet they feed the predator nonetheless.

“Totems” — I’ve noticed that they truly love their escapes. Whether it’s entertainment, religion, drugs or some combination of them — for better or worse. Here’s what they call “bubblers” or ‘bongs” — cannabis consumption devices to transport their minds to… wait what was I saying?⁣

STREET SAFARI

Street Safari — Humans in the Wild