In every society there is a cultural perspective of attractiveness. Women are often portrayed in art as a response to societal standards of beauty. Today's media has a strong influence on body image that strongly affects perceptions of femininity. Thin, fit women are highlighted as standards of beauty. However, this presents only one perception. Some artists use their work to counter these images with other views of beauty and sexuality outside the social norm (Robertson and McDaniel 86). Many artists view their works as commentaries on social perceptions and feel that their works offer satirical parodies on standards of beauty.
One such artist is Nancy Davidson who uses weather balloons to create voluminous shapes that celebrate women with larger proportions than standard perceptions of beauty (Robertson and McDaniel 86). She uses her medium to celebrate raw sexuality and the power that women have in the bedroom. Davidson believes this combines humor with feminism. While her art is in direct contrast to current standards, it offers a liberating view of female sexuality without the social constraints of one dimensional beauty.
i really appreciate the fact that Daniel brought up this issue. Media has always and continues to influence society's perception of what is "beautiful". i also LOVE Nancy Davidson's work. "Davidson believes this combines humor with feminism. While her art is in direct contrast to current standards, it offers a liberating view of female sexuality without the social constraints of one dimensional beauty." Thos statement is so true. I knew what these works referenced before anyone told me. I beleive that the way she approached this subject with a sense of humor makes it much more approachable. It also is a great way to ease into something that packs a powerful pumch.
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