In a society marked by stereotypes and unrealistic beauty standards, it is time to critically question the portrayal of women in Germany. As an artist known for my uncensored nude paintings, I want to shift the focus onto my art to revolutionize the traditional image of women. Through my latest series, "Desnúdate," and my vision of self-determination, I aim to motivate the redefinition of societal stereotypes, especially rigid portrayals of women, and create a culture of emancipation and freedom.
The Illusion of Perfection
German society often confronts women with an unrealistic ideal image created by the media and advertising. Slim bodies, flawless skin, and perfect proportions are propagated as the norm, leaving little room for individuality and diversity. This constructed notion of beauty creates pressure, self-doubt, and self-condemnation among many women. It is not surprising that only 4 percent of women worldwide consider themselves beautiful. Isn't it time to break this illusion of perfection and recognize and celebrate true beauty in all its diversity?
Distorted Image of Women
I am particularly disturbed by the still prevalent stereotypical image of women in Germany, especially concerning the compatibility of family and work. As a woman, I don't want to be pigeonholed and sacrifice my own needs and dreams just because the societal image of women remains traditional and outdated. Sometimes, I feel that no matter what women do, it is never right. If they are too thin, they receive comments; if they are too fat, it's the same. If women are ambitious and work a lot, they are automatically assumed to be selfish and lonely. If they are single, it is not simply accepted but they are repeatedly reminded of their biological clock. However, what I find most disturbing is the societal non-acceptance of contented, unmarried, and childless women. Are women only considered full-fledged members of society if they have a man by their side and dream of starting a family?
At this point, I would like to emphasize that there can be a thousand reasons why the life of the woman described above is just as it is and why it might be just as good! For example, this woman may have just come out of a relationship where she and her partner were living side by side, arguing without much love and affection. Perhaps even something worse! Regarding children: Not every woman wants to marry or necessarily have children, and that is her prerogative. Others may want children but are unable to have them. Again, there can be numerous reasons why things are not as society still presents as "normal" or standard. A question I often ask myself: Who decided that the construct of relationships and family, house and homestead must be the ultimate goal? Why is everything that deviates from it automatically considered less valuable? Especially when I read that in 2020, less than 50 percent of Germans in relationships were completely happy, with women being even less happy than men. Quite concerning, isn't it?
Change begins with us
It is time to leave behind this way of thinking and accept women as self-determined, courageous, and multifaceted individuals. We do not need pity, reminders that we are getting older, or dating tips from people who have never been single for longer than two weeks in their lives. To change the portrayal of women in German society, we must start with ourselves. In my opinion, it is essential to worry less about others and instead focus more on ourselves and our own issues. Each of us has unresolved conflicts that we should address before presuming to judge others. Simultaneously, we must free ourselves from societal expectations, recognize our true identity, and discover our own needs and desires.
Art as a Powerful Tool
This is where my art comes into play. Through my series "Desnúdate," I depict the female body in all its naturalness and authenticity. The faceless bodies symbolize the universal experience of suppression and encourage liberation from societal shackles. By challenging traditional representations of the female body, I call for accepting the diversity of body and mind and seeing beauty in every individual expression. My nude paintings do not strive for perfection, as it is merely an illusion created by our thoughts. There are no perfect bodies or life paths in reality, so I do not strive for them in my art either.
The Power of Self-Determination
My vision is for both women and men to realize their own dreams and goals and lead self-determined lives. Society should support and encourage us to follow our own paths without conforming to unrealistic stereotypes and beauty standards. Self-determination means having control over our bodies and lives. It means making decisions that lead to personal happiness and fulfillment, regardless of societal expectations.
Be the change you want to see in the world!
Photo: Tobias Clemens Richter
Commenti