http://www.flickr.com/photos/whoisthisanyway/2326017667/
This is a very obviously symbolic picture- nothing is really included which is not representative of something. The woman's body- only partially clothed- represents sexuality (human sexuality in general, and not just this woman's, since we do not see her face). The cross clearly represents christianity- but there is meaning embedded in the construction of the cross at well. The black board which lies vertically is symbolic of chastisty and religious repression/protection of sexuality (I see /protection because the board seems placed almost defensively, and itself does not denote a negative attitude towards sexuality). The piece of tape lying horizontally completes the cross while binding it to her- representing the firm grip of faith, and implying an intimate relationship with spirituality. The scissors are where the politics of the photo come more clearly into view- the fastening of the religion to the person carries with it a sense of danger. The scissors are closed, but still clearly representing the potential for harm.
What are these dangers? Perhaps it refers to the emotional/psychological issues that may come with sexual repression. Peraps the tape is not applied by the woman but is making a statement about cultures in which religion is not a choice- and thus this repression is almost always negative. The picture invokes the issue of abortion- one thing that usually comes with religious repression of sexuality is an even greater disapproval of abortion. For some, particularly in non-secular countries, not having the right to choose can be dangerous (when birth complications could be involved) and unfair (in the case of rape). The blog attached to the photo confirms this idea- it is making a statement about Christian efforts (obviously not by all demoninations) to make abortion illegal or difficult, and to in general restrict reproductive rights (including education and healthcare).
No comments:
Post a Comment