How can we cultivate a deeper understanding of historical and geopolitical issues through a shared meal?

Studio Overview

Thesis

Sequía O Saqueo explores the exploitation of water as a natural resource by soda companies in water insecure areas globally. Since the 1980 economic crisis, Mexico has suffered water scarcity. Sequía O Saqueo examines the town of San Cristóbal de las Casas as a case study in which Coca-cola is more accessible than potable water. In this town, Coca-Cola has become more accessible than clean water due to a deal with the federal government that allows the company to operate a bottling plant, pumping up to three-hundred thousand gallons of groundwater daily for its manufacturing process. The fault between the availability of Coca-Cola products and the lack of availability of potable water continues to result in adverse health effects for the citizens, including a vastly increased obesity rate and a 30% increase in deaths as a result of diabetes. There's no way to mince words- Coca-Cola is stealing water from citizens of this town- and the effects have been disastrous on both the citizens and the local environment.



Final Photo