EROTICISM AND INTIMACY

Collin Sekajugo
Artist Statement:
In this work I use female body parts to critique consumerism and images of women in
media and advertisement. I have chosen to focus on the female body because for centuries,
the idealized female body has been used to persuade consumers thereby promoting
gender stereotypes. According to Caitlin M. McCleary “exposure to images of female
attractiveness cause[s] body image disturbance” and that “beautiful models adversely affect
young women’s self-esteem and body satisfaction”. Women often compare themselves to
advertising models that they deem more beautiful than themselves, and these comparisons
create feelings of frustration and anxiety. Advertising and marketing have long held the
power to shape, and reinforce cultural norms, and for years, advertisers have been able
to propagate and strengthen gender stereotypes by disseminating harmful messages that
contribute to the further sexualization and oppression of women in many parts of the world.
22