Stealing an Interview with Vik Muniz in Rome

I brought no Italian to Rome.

Quick Answer

Crista Cloutier, founder of The Working Artist, secured a private interview with artist Vik Muniz in Rome despite initial language barriers at the Brazilian Embassy. She was mistakenly identified as a reputable French journalist, which unexpectedly granted her access to Muniz. Vik Muniz, described as generous and insightful, recognized Cloutier and patiently assisted her with her film equipment, leading to a successful interview for her Working Artist project.

At the Brazilian Embassy, I tell the guard that I am to see the great artist Vik Muniz. The guard speaks no English. My best mime only warrants a raised eyebrow.

In desperation, I plead, “Parlez francais?” though I do not. A call is placed and I gather that I have been mistaken for a french journalist of great repute. “French” because everyone now speaks to me in french, though my only reply is my customary Gallic shrug. “Journalist of repute” because I was granted the sole private interview with the artist so they assume I must be somebody.

The red carpet is rolled out as a diplomat whisks me upstairs to Vik. Introductions are made, in french, to Vik as he looks at me, baffled, and exclaims. “It’s you!” We embrace as I explain how I chased him to Rome, wanting an interview for my Working Artist project, and how I carefully connived to arrange this meeting.

They give us an ornate room to talk in private. Vik helps me set up my film equipment and, as I struggle, he patiently teaches me how to use my tripod. Oh God, I repeat to myself nervously. The Brazillian Ambassador drops in to say hello. Oh God. A white-gloved man in uniform silently serves us espresso. I am shaking with caffeinated nerves.

But he was the same Vik Muniz he has always been, generous, brilliant, hilarious, insightful, and gorgeous. And in the end, I got an amazing interview.

Written by Crista Cloutier, artist mentor + founder of The Working Artist. (learn more about Crista here)

Frequently Asked Questions

1 How did Crista manage to secure an interview with Vik Muniz despite the obstacles?

Crista initially struggled with a language barrier at the Brazilian Embassy in Rome, speaking no Italian. She was mistakenly identified as a reputable French journalist, which led to her being granted a private interview with Vik Muniz. Her persistence and a fortunate misunderstanding ultimately allowed her to meet him.

2 What can artists learn from Crista's experience in approaching an established artist like Vik Muniz?

The story highlights the importance of persistence and seizing unexpected opportunities, even when plans go awry. Crista's determination to chase Vik Muniz to Rome and her ability to adapt to the situation ultimately led to a successful interview. It suggests that resourcefulness can open doors in the art world.

3 How did Vik Muniz react to Crista's unexpected arrival and her 'stolen' interview?

Vik Muniz recognized Crista immediately, exclaiming "It's you!" and embracing her. He was described as generous, brilliant, hilarious, insightful, and gorgeous, patiently helping her set up her film equipment. He maintained his kind and helpful demeanor throughout the interview.

4 What was the primary challenge Crista faced when trying to arrange the interview?

Crista's primary challenge was the language barrier, as she spoke no Italian and the embassy guard spoke no English. This initial communication difficulty led to the misunderstanding that she was a French journalist, which ironically facilitated the interview.