Stereotypes and Subversions
Faculty Mentor Name
Merrill Schleier
Abstract/Artist Statement
My series of photographs focus on stereotypes of women. I feel women are often seen as weak, inferior to men both physically and mentally, and viewed as objects rather than human beings. I believe women are intelligent and strong-willed individuals, but many are unsure that they can express those qualities in today's world. Though times are changing, I still see many stereotypes of women that are \mtrue and unfair. Yet many women conform to these stereotypes instead of trying to break free of them. I use a diptych format to display two images, the first is a stereotype, and the second is the subversion or anti stereotype. The scene in the first photograph, representing the stereotype, is composed of women and props that are stereotypical of ideal femininity, such as nail polish and makeup, or cleaning supplies and laundry. The subversion pictures are composed of the same women and props but with an added element that rejects the stereotype. These pieces are intended to promote discussion. Whether my viewers agree or disagree, my statement is acknowledged either way.
Location
Studio Art Building
Start Date
3-5-2008 1:00 PM
End Date
3-5-2008 5:00 PM
Stereotypes and Subversions
Studio Art Building
My series of photographs focus on stereotypes of women. I feel women are often seen as weak, inferior to men both physically and mentally, and viewed as objects rather than human beings. I believe women are intelligent and strong-willed individuals, but many are unsure that they can express those qualities in today's world. Though times are changing, I still see many stereotypes of women that are \mtrue and unfair. Yet many women conform to these stereotypes instead of trying to break free of them. I use a diptych format to display two images, the first is a stereotype, and the second is the subversion or anti stereotype. The scene in the first photograph, representing the stereotype, is composed of women and props that are stereotypical of ideal femininity, such as nail polish and makeup, or cleaning supplies and laundry. The subversion pictures are composed of the same women and props but with an added element that rejects the stereotype. These pieces are intended to promote discussion. Whether my viewers agree or disagree, my statement is acknowledged either way.