Barbara Kruger and the Fragmentation of the "Happy Housewife"
Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Artist Statement
As a result of her background in graphic design, artist Barbara Kruger is able to subvert the visual and textual techniques used by contemporary mass media advertisers who prescribe messages of social conformity. Her style is unique in that she often works within the confines of portrayals of female imagery reminiscent of 1950s advertising media. By employing images and texts that refer to feminine ideology that developed during the post-war era with current techniques in graphic design, Barbara Kruger illuminates and attempts to counteract the presence of the ideal of feminine passivity and domesticity, both of which continue to remain a prevalent tool for female confinement and objectification.
Location
University of the Pacific, Classroom Building
Start Date
5-5-2007 9:00 AM
End Date
5-5-2007 12:30 PM
Barbara Kruger and the Fragmentation of the "Happy Housewife"
University of the Pacific, Classroom Building
As a result of her background in graphic design, artist Barbara Kruger is able to subvert the visual and textual techniques used by contemporary mass media advertisers who prescribe messages of social conformity. Her style is unique in that she often works within the confines of portrayals of female imagery reminiscent of 1950s advertising media. By employing images and texts that refer to feminine ideology that developed during the post-war era with current techniques in graphic design, Barbara Kruger illuminates and attempts to counteract the presence of the ideal of feminine passivity and domesticity, both of which continue to remain a prevalent tool for female confinement and objectification.