Israeli Government Organizes Filming Event to Raise Awareness of Climate Crisis
[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] Models painted entirely in white paint were captured conducting a nude photoshoot in the wasteland near the Dead Sea in southern Israel.
According to foreign media including AFP on the 17th (local time), the Israel Ministry of Tourism conducted the shoot to promote the view of the Dead Sea in Malaga to the world. American photographer Spencer Tunick, who led the project, first visited the site 10 years ago and photographed about 1,000 models, then returned every five years to continue the project.
On this day, about 200 male and female models painted their entire bodies with white paint and posed for nude photos. Following Tunick's instructions, the models posed standing while bending their waists, bringing their feet together, and letting their hands hang loosely.
The Dead Sea is experiencing a decrease in water level by about 1 meter per year due to Israel and Jordan diverting most of the upstream water for agriculture and drinking, mineral extraction, and climate change accelerating evaporation. When Tunick first visited the Dead Sea 10 years ago, the water surface was calm, but five years later, upon revisiting, the bottom was exposed and a huge sinkhole had formed.
Tunick said he decided to paint the models white inspired by the biblical story of "Lot's wife turned into a pillar of salt" from the Old Testament. He added, "The human body represents beauty, life, and love."
The Israel Ministry of Tourism explained that it covered Tunick's airfare, shooting costs, staff, and other expenses for this project.
Meanwhile, some conservative figures in Israel expressed dissatisfaction and demanded the withdrawal of sponsorship.
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