Artist behind “The Thinker’s Burden” reflects on how to leave the world better than you found it

Von Wong, a Canadian artist, created his sculpture specifically for this month’s round of negotiations over the first global plastics treaty. It features a replica of Auguste Rodin’s sculpture “The Thinker.” Von Wong’s version holds a baby in one hand, and is perched atop Mother Earth while a strand of DNA coils around him.

Photo of Artist and activist, Benjamin Von Wong, standing in front of the Thinkers Burden sculpture and holding out both of his hands — Canadian Artist and activist, Benjamin Von Wong.

The photographer-turned-sculptor is trying to send a message to diplomats as they hammer out a United Nations agreement to curb plastic pollution.

Image of a sign explaning what the Thinkers Burden sculpture is about

Von Wong recalled his early days as a photographer, when he was focused on trying to get as much attention as possible. Now, his quest to change the world inspires him far more than the quest for attention, fame, or influence.

Around 2016-17, Von Wong shifted his work from photographs to large art installations. His installation “Turn Off the Plastic Tap” was featured at the UN Environment Assembly meeting that kicked off plastics treaty negotiations in 2022.

Though he does not consider himself religious, he does think of himself as spiritual. “It is the right thing to do to leave the world better than you found it,” he said. “I would assume that churches are about how to live a good and meaningful life, and contribute to make the world better for all people on the planet.”

He believes you cannot think about thriving people without thinking about a thriving planet.

Image of two little boys holding hands while looking at the Thinkers Burden sculpture

“When we think about dismantling the systems we’ve built that are gendered and unfair and deeply patriarchal—that’s the only way the world gets better,” he said. “I just really think that my work strives to make something invisible, visible.”

Von Wong can’t be sure if “The Thinker’s Burden” has really made a difference inside negotiations to end plastic pollution. “But I know for a fact people viewing this installation are talking about their position, and it’s helping them communicate about issues that used to be much more abstract.”