‘A Woman’s World’. 2019 - present.

‘A Woman’s World’ uses performative photography to challenge dominant assumptions and stereotypes of women seen in online chat forums and articles about the ideal ‘types of women.’

During my adolescent years, I was diagnosed with Endometriosis, a condition that can prohibit a woman from conceiving a child, among other conditions. I began questioning myself if I am truly a real woman? If I may not be able to do what other women can do, am I a phony? Am I less worthy?

After extensive research I found several articles defining various ‘types of women’ and describing ‘what makes a good woman’. I grew up in a household where the traditional gender roles were flipped and defining women by roles was a new concept for me.

Using a performative approach, I evoke the misogynist or sexist gaze by creating cinematic tableau’s of gendered situations. In “Approaching the Jobs & Benefits” I take on the role of a well-dressed woman positioning herself to take advantage of the system. She is approaching the jobs and benefits office while push a luxury brand pram while wearing expensive clothes. I place the viewer in a position to ask themselves if she is using public benefits to fund her expensive shopping habit or is she seeking a job to improve her career.  Similarly, in “Leading a Meeting”, it may appear as if she is not in control of the situation, however upon more thought there could be a more than reasonable explanation to her silence.

The common theme being there is no right answer and the viewer is in full control of the outcome of their experience. This approach will hopefully allow viewers to willingly explore other possibilities these women may be living in, instead of forcing one strict story line we may assume because of common stereotypes we have been fed.