Beggars have been around for as long as anyone can remember, and Indonesia is no exception, but a new type of beggar, the so-called Silver Men, has recently sprung up in the South East Asian country. Known as Manusia Silver or “Silver Men,” they are a special kind of beggar inspired by the street performers. They use metallic paint to turn themselves into living statues. The beggars have opted for this look because it makes them stand out and therefore increases the chances of people giving them money.
To get the look, Silver Men just spray-paint themselves with the metallic pigment, grab a cardboard box and walk among the cars on busy roads.
According to recent articles in Indonesian press their numbers have recently soared, and police have been cracking down on Manusia Silver, arresting and fining them in order to discourage them from annoying people for money.
It can’t be cheap to spray paint oneself silver. I hope it doesn’t harm them.