Klaus Thymann's book "Hybrids" explores incongruous themes - including (among others) gay rodeo, underground garden, artificial beach, and religious theme park. The photographs are of The Holy Land Experience in Orlando, Florida. The juxtaposition of the scene from the crucifixion and the tourists checking their photos raises a number of emotions. I'm not quite sure what to think of the park. Where is the line between evangelism/ministry and entertainment? Should there be a line at all?
the rare books collection i used to curate is now housed at the holy land experience. i was absolutely horrified when i learned these fine volumes that were world-class museum level were going to reside alongside such a revolting spectacle. i was invited to continue curating the collection there but wanted nothing to do with that place. ugh! the juxtaposition of the photos captures the essence of the experience perfectly for me.
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