Who are we? Do we always have to fit into categories? Are things that polarized?
Society is starting to (very, very slowly) recognize the existence of a spectrum between femininity and masculinity, and the fact they are not necessarily exclusive, when it comes to identity. I like the idea that each one of us is not limited to some stereotype, but rather a complex recipe of various feelings and sensitivity.
After all, while a quick medical exam can put me in the "male" category, would it be that clear if the exam took place through a written chat, simply based on my wording or communication style? I don't believe that some psychological traits are reserved to women, or some other to men. There are probably statistics about each of them, tendencies, but it would be hard to measure societal influence, and distinguish the intrinsic individual anyway.
This picture is the result of a project that started back at the end of 2019: two actors, Muriel and John, asked me to create their upcoming theater show poster. The show depicts the influence of women in men's life, and vice-versa. While thinking about their play, and also about all these gender related complex problems, I imagined this mask, composed of bodies, with women on one side and men on the other, while the face would be split in the opposite way. They liked the concept and bravely accepted to pose for it. The shooting occured in my home studio in January 2020, and things mostly worked as expected. I am very happy about the result: balancing colors and lights can be a bit tricky when compositing a lot of photos together.
When this archival challenge appeared, I thought it would be a great occasion to share it there. I chose an appropriate book, and adjusted the text accordingly. In fact, due to the Covid-19 situation, the play has not been displayed as hoped: therefore, external feedback about the picture is very welcome. Muriel, John and I are delighted about the kind DPC response. Thanks a lot!
Statistics
Place: 1 out of 47 Avg (all users): 7.7544 Avg (participants): 7.9310 Avg (non-participants): 7.5714 Views since voting: 1480 Views during voting: 155 Votes: 57 Comments: 22 Favorites: 5 (view)
The first time I saw this, it was on my iPhone screen, just checking some of the entries. I was amazed at the detail and perfection this image had on my phone. But then I finally opened it on the computer screen and WOW! There is so much to find the explore. And it all ties into the story. Thanks for sharing your work here! We are all better for it.
Wonderful art! The story is woven through the cover in beautiful detail, color and gentleness, and the more I view it the more I see. Congratulations on your best yet!
Congrats on the Blue, Christopher. It's a marvellous image (as usual) and looking at all those details is like an adventure. And thanks for sharing the story behind it. I also agree with marnet, shame on the low voters.
WOW! This is a magnificent creation and one of your best if not the best but you have created so many amazing creations that would be a tough call. Muriel and John must be very pleased indeed with this poster and it is sure to get them lots of attention. I feel privileged to view your creations here on DPC - you are a true master and I would not be surprised
if kids will be reading about your art in school in years to come.
you are like a shining light in this site ..
your entries in the challenges are not only a feast for the eyes .. but also statements about our world and society ..
if your 'other' life is anything like your one here .. then i can imagine you being someone who others look up to and respect ..
your wisdom and insight i hope gives pause to ppl who are stuck in those stereotypes .. we are all connected .. and when we disrespect those who are different then it hurts not only them and our society but ourselves as well ..
many congratulations on your blue ribbon ..:)
I don't know why I even bother LOL
Of course this is the blue . . . and deservedly so. It's both obvious (essential since a good book cover must draw us in immediately and even from afar) and subtle (which would hold the reader who picked it up in fascination as he examined the details). Plus it's a thing of beauty - lovely light and color.
very imaginative and extremely well done. Love how the hands shape a piece of clothing, the males on the female's mask and vice versa. Perfect.
Think this will get the blue
Delusions of Gender
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