ROCATERRANIA, 2009
Directed by: Brett Ingram
http://www.brettingram.org/film/RocOverview.php

Renaldo Kuhlers’ fantasy world of survival, is even more sophisticated than it appears.

In this documentary, ROCATERRANIA is one man’s fantasy world. Originally created as a means for escape, it showcases the ability of the true Human Spirit to survive. Over a 40 year period Renaldo Kuhler developed a body of artistic work that was inspired by the turmoil that surrounded him. Because of the displeasure by parents about his peculiar means of expression, he created his work largely underground in the fear that he would be branded crazy and likely institutionalized. Ostracized by classmates because of his unconventional style, he isolated himself socially and took refuge in the safety of his creative work.

In ROCATERRANIA, he envisioned an independent state that had its geographical presence south of the St. Lawrence River and in northern New York State. His world was a detailed analysis and expression of social, political and economic systems, which was so intricate that he showcased political strife and upheaval. In this fantasy world, Kuhler created a language, illustrated individual characters and the complex interpersonal relationships around them. Being disenfranchised with the current form of Democracy he wanted to create a system of equality, something that seemed to be lacking in his own personal life. The microcosm of his life on a ranch with his parents in rural Colorado manifested this unbelievable collection of creative genius.

In retrospect, some of the schools of thought that was expressed in his work could be thought of extreme, alternative or even outlandish at the time. However, in contemporary terms they deal with some of the issues that are common thought today, including modern day environmentalism, where he illustrates an example of a municipal self sustaining sewage treatment and composting system. He envisioned a modest self-sustaining society before its time.

Rocaterrania Map

As a self-described non-conformist, he created his own unique style of clothing that was an expression of his fantasy, which he proudly wears in public. In one scene, his seamstress seems unflapped by his fashion sense, as he interacts with her like a 12 year old buying Hannah Montana clothing.

This film is one mans complex journey in his mind, he states “the ability to Fantasize is to survive” and “each is a Nation to oneself”. No matter what we perceive of others, if we could accept individuality, equality and humanness in others, it may seem less of a Fantasy to the rest of us.

J Peachy

Visual Artist and Creative Catalyst
jpeachy.carbonmade.com

Producer Sound Therapy Radio
CJSF 90.1 FM
soundtherapyradio.com

About these ads